Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Epidemiology Forecast - 2034
Description
Key Highlights
LEMS is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by impaired neuromuscular transmission due to autoantibodies targeting presynaptic Voltage-gated Calcium Channels (VGCCs), leading to muscle weakness and autonomic dysfunction.
LEMS presents in two forms: Paraneoplastic LEMS, associated with malignancies such as small cell lung cancer (SCLC), thymoma, prostate adenocarcinoma, Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), multiple myeloma, and others; and autoimmune (nonparaneoplastic) LEMS, which develops as a primary autoimmune condition without an underlying cancer.
Prognosis in LEMS depends on the underlying cause: autoimmune LEMS typically responds well and has a more favorable outcome, while the nature of the underlying tumor largely influences in cancer-associated LEMS, though outcomes may be slightly better than in similar cancer cases without LEMS.
Underdiagnosis remains a concern due to limited access to electrophysiological testing and antibody assays. Additionally, mild or nonspecific symptoms in cancer patients are often misattributed to fatigue or treatment side effects, resulting in missed or delayed LEMS diagnoses.
The US accounted for approximately 1200 diagnosed prevalent LEMS cases in 2024, the data available suggests that the US and Europe has almost similar kind of prevalence.
Gender-specific distribution patterns in LEMS show that paraneoplastic LEMS is more commonly observed in males, likely due to the higher incidence of smoking-related malignancies such as SCLC. In contrast, autoimmune LEMS tends to have a higher prevalence among females.
DelveInsight’s “Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS) – Epidemiology Forecast – 2034” report delivers an in-depth understanding of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, historical and forecasted epidemiology of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome in the United States, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and the United Kingdom, and Japan.
Geography Covered
The United States
EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and the United Kingdom
Japan
Study Period: 2020–2034
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Understanding
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Overview
LEMS is a rare autoimmune neuromuscular disorder characterized by impaired communication between nerves and muscles, leading to progressive muscle weakness and autonomic dysfunction. It occurs in two forms: paraneoplastic LEMS, commonly associated with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and other malignancies, and autoimmune LEMS, which arises without an underlying tumor. The disorder is caused by autoantibodies targeting presynaptic P/Q-type voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs), reducing acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction. While rare, LEMS can precede cancer diagnosis, making it a potential early marker for malignancy.
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Diagnosis
Diagnosis of LEMS begins with clinical suspicion based on symptoms such as proximal muscle weakness, fatigue, and autonomic signs (e.g., dry mouth, constipation). Confirmation involves electrophysiological testing, which reveals low baseline CMAP amplitudes, a >10% decrement on low-frequency repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS), and a >100% post-exercise increment—considered a hallmark of LEMS. Additionally, serologic testing for anti-VGCC (P/Q-type) antibodies supports the diagnosis, although these antibodies may be absent in some cases. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial, particularly in paraneoplastic LEMS, where it can prompt timely cancer screening and intervention.
Further details related to diagnosis are provided in the report…
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Epidemiology
For the purpose of designing the patient-based model for Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, the report provides historical as well as forecasted epidemiology segmented by prevalent cases of LEMS, diagnosed prevalent cases of LEMS, gender-specific cases of LEMS, and type-specific cases of LEMS in the 7MM covering the United States, EU4 countries (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and the United Kingdom, and Japan, from 2020 to 2034.
In 2024, the United States reported an estimated ~2,000 prevalent cases of LEMS.
Despite subtype-specific gender differences, males accounted for approximately 60% of total LEMS cases driven primarily by the higher incidence of p-LEMS among men.
Paraneoplastic LEMS remains the dominant subtype, largely reflecting the strong association with SCLC. In the US alone, SCLC-associated LEMS cases were estimated at approximately 700 in 2024, underscoring the critical role of oncologic surveillance in this population.
KOL Views
To gaze into the epidemiology insights of the real world, we take KOLs and SMEs’ opinions working in the domain through primary research to fill the data gaps and validate our secondary research on disease prevalence.
DelveInsight’s analysts connected with 25+ KOLs to gather insights; however, interviews were conducted with 10+ KOLs in the 7MM. Centers such as the State University of New York, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, Institute de Myologie, Kanazawa University, and others were contacted. Their opinion helps understand and validate current disease prevalence, gender involved with the disease, diagnosis rate, and diagnostic criteria.
As per the KOLs from the US, non-tumor forms of LEMS are thought to have a genetic predisposition linked to particular human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles, such as HLA-B8 from class I and HLA-DR3 and HLA-DQ2 from class II. These same alleles are commonly seen in individuals with other autoimmune disorders, including myasthenia gravis.
As per the KOLs from Italy, the exact trigger for NT-LEMS remains unclear; however, it shows a strong association with autoimmune conditions and, in some cases, a maternal predisposition. Additionally, there is a noted link between NT-LEMS and autoimmune-related HLA haplotypes such as HLA-B8, A1, A2, and DR3 especially in individuals with early-onset disease.
As per the KOLs from Japan, pattern of male predominance in paraneoplastic LEMS and female predominance in autoimmune LEMS has been observed. This shift may reflect broader demographic changes in smoking habits, given that smoking is a major risk factor for SCLC. Notably, LEMS frequently appears before the diagnosis of SCLC, suggesting its potential role as an early indicator of the underlying malignancy.
Scope of the Report
The report covers a segment of executive summary, descriptive overview of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, explaining its causes, signs and symptoms, and currently available diagnostic algorithms and guidelines.
Comprehensive insight has been provided into the epidemiology segments and forecasts, the future growth potential of diagnosis rate, disease progression, and diagnosis guidelines.
The report provides an edge for understanding trends, expert insights/KOL views, and patient journeys in the 7MM.
A detailed review of current challenges in establishing the diagnosis.
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Report Insights
Patient Population
Country-wise Epidemiology Distribution
Total Prevalent Cases of LEMS
Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of LEMS
Gender-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of LEMS
Type-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of LEMS
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Report Key Strengths
10 years Forecast
The 7MM Coverage
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Epidemiology Segmentation
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Report Assessment
Current Diagnostic Practices Patient Segmentation
Epidemiology Insights
What are the disease risk, burdens, and unmet needs of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome? What will be the growth opportunities across the 7MM concerning the patient population of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome?
What is the historical and forecasted Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome patient pool in the United States, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and the United Kingdom, and Japan?
Why is the diagnosed incidence cases of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome in Japan lower than the US?
Which country has a high patient share for Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome?
Reasons to Buy
Insights on patient burden/disease, evolution in diagnosis, and factors contributing to the change in the epidemiology of the disease during the forecast years.
To understand the Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome prevalence cases in varying geographies over the coming years.
A detailed overview of gender, and type-specific diagnosed prevalent cases, and prevalent cases of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome based on diagnostic imaging modality and regional population differences, since variations in imaging sensitivity and demographic factors substantially influence detection rates.
To understand the perspective of key opinion leaders around the current challenges with establishing the diagnosis options.
Detailed insights on various factors hampering disease diagnosis and other existing diagnostic challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the forecast period covered in the report?
The Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome epidemiology report for the 7MM covers the forecast period from 2025 to 2034, providing a projection of epidemiology dynamics and trends during this timeframe.
2. How is epidemiological data collected and analyzed for forecasting purposes?
Epidemiological data is collected through surveys, clinical studies, health records, and other sources. It is then analyzed to calculate disease rates, identify trends, and project future disease burdens using mathematical models.
LEMS is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by impaired neuromuscular transmission due to autoantibodies targeting presynaptic Voltage-gated Calcium Channels (VGCCs), leading to muscle weakness and autonomic dysfunction.
LEMS presents in two forms: Paraneoplastic LEMS, associated with malignancies such as small cell lung cancer (SCLC), thymoma, prostate adenocarcinoma, Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), multiple myeloma, and others; and autoimmune (nonparaneoplastic) LEMS, which develops as a primary autoimmune condition without an underlying cancer.
Prognosis in LEMS depends on the underlying cause: autoimmune LEMS typically responds well and has a more favorable outcome, while the nature of the underlying tumor largely influences in cancer-associated LEMS, though outcomes may be slightly better than in similar cancer cases without LEMS.
Underdiagnosis remains a concern due to limited access to electrophysiological testing and antibody assays. Additionally, mild or nonspecific symptoms in cancer patients are often misattributed to fatigue or treatment side effects, resulting in missed or delayed LEMS diagnoses.
The US accounted for approximately 1200 diagnosed prevalent LEMS cases in 2024, the data available suggests that the US and Europe has almost similar kind of prevalence.
Gender-specific distribution patterns in LEMS show that paraneoplastic LEMS is more commonly observed in males, likely due to the higher incidence of smoking-related malignancies such as SCLC. In contrast, autoimmune LEMS tends to have a higher prevalence among females.
DelveInsight’s “Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS) – Epidemiology Forecast – 2034” report delivers an in-depth understanding of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, historical and forecasted epidemiology of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome in the United States, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and the United Kingdom, and Japan.
Geography Covered
The United States
EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and the United Kingdom
Japan
Study Period: 2020–2034
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Understanding
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Overview
LEMS is a rare autoimmune neuromuscular disorder characterized by impaired communication between nerves and muscles, leading to progressive muscle weakness and autonomic dysfunction. It occurs in two forms: paraneoplastic LEMS, commonly associated with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and other malignancies, and autoimmune LEMS, which arises without an underlying tumor. The disorder is caused by autoantibodies targeting presynaptic P/Q-type voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs), reducing acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction. While rare, LEMS can precede cancer diagnosis, making it a potential early marker for malignancy.
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Diagnosis
Diagnosis of LEMS begins with clinical suspicion based on symptoms such as proximal muscle weakness, fatigue, and autonomic signs (e.g., dry mouth, constipation). Confirmation involves electrophysiological testing, which reveals low baseline CMAP amplitudes, a >10% decrement on low-frequency repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS), and a >100% post-exercise increment—considered a hallmark of LEMS. Additionally, serologic testing for anti-VGCC (P/Q-type) antibodies supports the diagnosis, although these antibodies may be absent in some cases. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial, particularly in paraneoplastic LEMS, where it can prompt timely cancer screening and intervention.
Further details related to diagnosis are provided in the report…
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Epidemiology
For the purpose of designing the patient-based model for Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, the report provides historical as well as forecasted epidemiology segmented by prevalent cases of LEMS, diagnosed prevalent cases of LEMS, gender-specific cases of LEMS, and type-specific cases of LEMS in the 7MM covering the United States, EU4 countries (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and the United Kingdom, and Japan, from 2020 to 2034.
In 2024, the United States reported an estimated ~2,000 prevalent cases of LEMS.
Despite subtype-specific gender differences, males accounted for approximately 60% of total LEMS cases driven primarily by the higher incidence of p-LEMS among men.
Paraneoplastic LEMS remains the dominant subtype, largely reflecting the strong association with SCLC. In the US alone, SCLC-associated LEMS cases were estimated at approximately 700 in 2024, underscoring the critical role of oncologic surveillance in this population.
KOL Views
To gaze into the epidemiology insights of the real world, we take KOLs and SMEs’ opinions working in the domain through primary research to fill the data gaps and validate our secondary research on disease prevalence.
DelveInsight’s analysts connected with 25+ KOLs to gather insights; however, interviews were conducted with 10+ KOLs in the 7MM. Centers such as the State University of New York, Humboldt-Universität Zu Berlin, Institute de Myologie, Kanazawa University, and others were contacted. Their opinion helps understand and validate current disease prevalence, gender involved with the disease, diagnosis rate, and diagnostic criteria.
As per the KOLs from the US, non-tumor forms of LEMS are thought to have a genetic predisposition linked to particular human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles, such as HLA-B8 from class I and HLA-DR3 and HLA-DQ2 from class II. These same alleles are commonly seen in individuals with other autoimmune disorders, including myasthenia gravis.
As per the KOLs from Italy, the exact trigger for NT-LEMS remains unclear; however, it shows a strong association with autoimmune conditions and, in some cases, a maternal predisposition. Additionally, there is a noted link between NT-LEMS and autoimmune-related HLA haplotypes such as HLA-B8, A1, A2, and DR3 especially in individuals with early-onset disease.
As per the KOLs from Japan, pattern of male predominance in paraneoplastic LEMS and female predominance in autoimmune LEMS has been observed. This shift may reflect broader demographic changes in smoking habits, given that smoking is a major risk factor for SCLC. Notably, LEMS frequently appears before the diagnosis of SCLC, suggesting its potential role as an early indicator of the underlying malignancy.
Scope of the Report
The report covers a segment of executive summary, descriptive overview of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, explaining its causes, signs and symptoms, and currently available diagnostic algorithms and guidelines.
Comprehensive insight has been provided into the epidemiology segments and forecasts, the future growth potential of diagnosis rate, disease progression, and diagnosis guidelines.
The report provides an edge for understanding trends, expert insights/KOL views, and patient journeys in the 7MM.
A detailed review of current challenges in establishing the diagnosis.
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Report Insights
Patient Population
Country-wise Epidemiology Distribution
Total Prevalent Cases of LEMS
Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of LEMS
Gender-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of LEMS
Type-specific Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of LEMS
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Report Key Strengths
10 years Forecast
The 7MM Coverage
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Epidemiology Segmentation
Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome Report Assessment
Current Diagnostic Practices Patient Segmentation
Epidemiology Insights
What are the disease risk, burdens, and unmet needs of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome? What will be the growth opportunities across the 7MM concerning the patient population of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome?
What is the historical and forecasted Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome patient pool in the United States, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and the United Kingdom, and Japan?
Why is the diagnosed incidence cases of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome in Japan lower than the US?
Which country has a high patient share for Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome?
Reasons to Buy
Insights on patient burden/disease, evolution in diagnosis, and factors contributing to the change in the epidemiology of the disease during the forecast years.
To understand the Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome prevalence cases in varying geographies over the coming years.
A detailed overview of gender, and type-specific diagnosed prevalent cases, and prevalent cases of Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome based on diagnostic imaging modality and regional population differences, since variations in imaging sensitivity and demographic factors substantially influence detection rates.
To understand the perspective of key opinion leaders around the current challenges with establishing the diagnosis options.
Detailed insights on various factors hampering disease diagnosis and other existing diagnostic challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the forecast period covered in the report?
The Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome epidemiology report for the 7MM covers the forecast period from 2025 to 2034, providing a projection of epidemiology dynamics and trends during this timeframe.
2. How is epidemiological data collected and analyzed for forecasting purposes?
Epidemiological data is collected through surveys, clinical studies, health records, and other sources. It is then analyzed to calculate disease rates, identify trends, and project future disease burdens using mathematical models.
Table of Contents
79 Pages
- 1. Key Insights
- 2. Report Introduction
- 3. LEMS Epidemiology Overview at a Glance
- 3.1. Patient Share (%) Distribution of LEMS in 2024
- 3.2. Patient Share (%) Distribution of LEMS in 2034
- 4. Methodology
- 5. Executive Summary
- 6. Disease Background and Overview
- 6.1. Introduction
- 6.2. Signs and Symptoms
- 6.3. Etiology
- 6.3.1. Categorization of LEMS Based on Etiology
- 6.3.1.1. Paraneoplastic LEMS (Cancer-associated LEMS)
- 6.3.1.1.1. SCLC
- 6.3.1.1.2. Thymoma
- 6.3.1.1.3. Other Cancers
- 6.3.1.2. Nonparaneoplastic LEMS (Autoimmune LEMS)
- 6.4. Risk Factors
- 6.4.1. SCLC
- 6.4.2. Cigarette Smoking
- 6.4.3. Autoimmune Diseases
- 6.4.4. Genetic Susceptibility (HLA Haplotypes)
- 6.4.5. Family History of Autoimmunity
- 6.5. Prognosis
- 6.5.1. Functional Recovery and Quality of Life
- 6.5.2. Long-term Survival Outlook
- 6.5.3. Clinical Implications
- 6.6. Pathophysiology
- 6.6.1. Normal Neuromuscular Transmission
- 6.6.2. Mechanisms of Impairment in LEMS
- 6.6.3. Paraneoplastic and Autoimmune Forms
- 6.6.4. Additional Immunological Targets
- 6.6.5. Functional and Clinical Correlates
- 6.6.6. Autoantibody Profile
- 6.7. Complications
- 6.8. Diagnosis
- 6.8.1. Clinical Assessment: History and Physical Examination
- 6.8.2. Electrophysiological Studies
- 6.8.3. Autoantibody Serology
- 6.8.4. Oncological Screening
- 6.8.5. Autoimmune Disease Evaluation
- 6.9. Differential Diagnosis (DDx)
- 6.9.1. Myasthenia Gravis
- 6.9.2. Inflammatory Myopathies (e.g., Polymyositis, Necrotizing Myopathy)
- 6.9.3. Parkinson’s Disease
- 6.9.4. Peripheral Neuropathies and Other Neurological Disorders
- 6.9.5. Psychiatric or Functional Disorders
- 6.1. Diagnostic Guidelines
- 6.10.1. Japanese Clinical Guidelines for LEMS (2022)
- 6.10.2. Diagnostic Criteria for Paraneoplastic Syndrome by EFNS Task Force (2010)
- 6.10.3. Updated Diagnostic Criteria for Paraneoplastic Neurologic Syndromes by International Experts (PNS-care Panel) (2021)
- 6.11. Diagnostic Algorithm
- 7. Patient Journey
- 8. Epidemiology and Patient Population
- 8.1. Key Findings
- 8.2. Assumptions and Rationale: 7MM
- 8.3. Total Prevalent Cases of LEMS in the 7MM
- 8.4. Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of LEMS in the 7MM
- 8.5. The United States
- 8.5.1. Total Prevalent Cases of LEMS in the United States
- 8.5.2. Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of LEMS in the United States
- 8.5.3. Gender-specific Cases of LEMS in the United States
- 8.5.4. Type-specific Cases of LEMS in the United States
- 8.6. EU4 and the UK
- 8.6.1. Total Prevalent Cases of LEMS in EU4 and the UK
- 8.6.2. Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of LEMS in EU4 and the UK
- 8.6.3. Gender-specific Cases of LEMS in EU4 and the UK
- 8.6.4. Type-specific Cases of LEMS in EU4 and the UK
- 8.7. Japan
- 8.7.1. Total Prevalent Cases of LEMS in Japan
- 8.7.2. Total Diagnosed Prevalent Cases of LEMS in Japan
- 8.7.3. Gender-specific Cases of LEMS in Japan
- 8.7.4. Type-specific Cases of LEMS in Japan
- 9. KOL Views
- 10. Appendix
- 10.1. Bibliography
- 10.2. Report Methodology
- 11. DelveInsight Capabilities
- 12. Disclaimer
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