Treatment for Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome
Abstract Background Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) is an autoimmune disorder of neuromuscular transmission. Treatments attempt to overcome the harmful autoimmune process, or improve residual neuromuscular transmission Objectives The objective was to examine the efficacy of treatment in Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Neuromuscular Disease Group Specialized Register (12 October 2010), the […]
Treatment for postpolio syndrome
Abstract Background Postpolio syndrome (PPS) may affect survivors of paralytic poliomyelitis and is characterised by a complex of neuromuscular symptoms leading to a decline in physical functioning. The effectiveness of pharmacological treatment and rehabilitation management in PPS is not yet established. Objectives To review systematically the effects of any treatment for PPS compared to placebo, […]
Plasma exchange for generalised myasthenia gravis
Abstract Background Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease mediated by auto-antibodies most often directed against the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. Less than five per cent of patients have auto-antibodies to a muscle tyrosine kinase. Patients would be expected to benefit from plasma exchange. Objectives To examine the efficacy of plasma exchange in the short- and long-term treatment […]
Enteral tube feeding for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/motor neuron disease
Abstract Background Enteral feeding (tube feeding) is offered to many people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/motor neuron disease experiencing difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) and maintaining adequate nutritional intake leading to weight loss. Objectives To examine the efficacy of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy placement or other tube feeding placement on: (1) survival; (2) nutritional status; (3) quality of life; […]
High-dose chemotherapy for children and young adults with stage IV rhabdomyosarcoma
Abstract Background Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common soft tissue sarcoma of childhood. Prognosis for patients with metastatic disease has not improved significantly in the past decades. High-dose chemotherapy (HDC) seems to be an attractive option to treat minimal residual disease in metastatic rhabdomyosarcoma patients. Objectives The objective of the review was to assess the effectiveness […]
Betahistine for Ménière’s disease or syndrome
Abstract Background This is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in The Cochrane Library in Issue 1, 2001 and previously updated in 2008. Ménière’s disease is characterised by attacks of hearing loss, tinnitus and disabling vertigo. Betahistine (Serc®, Betaserc®) is used by many people to reduce the frequency and severity of these attacks […]
Psychostimulants for hypersomnia (excessive daytime sleepiness) in myotonic dystrophy
Abstract Background Excessive daytime sleepiness is a common symptom of myotonic dystrophy. Psychostimulants are drugs increasingly used to treat hypersomnia in myotonic dystrophy. Objectives To search systematically for, and combine all evidence from, randomized trials relating to the effects of psychostimulants in myotonic dystrophy patients with hypersomnia. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Neuromuscular Disease […]
Multidisciplinary care for Guillain-Barré syndrome
Abstract Background Guillain-Barré syndrome is a significant cause of new long-term disability, which is thought to be amenable to multidisciplinary care, but the evidence base for its effectiveness is unclear. Objectives To assess the effectiveness of multidisciplinary care in adults with Guillain-Barré syndrome, especially the types of approaches that are effective (settings, intensity) and the […]
Acupuncture for Bell’s palsy
Abstract Background Bell’s palsy or idiopathic facial palsy is an acute facial paralysis due to inflammation of the facial nerve. A number of studies published in China have suggested acupuncture is beneficial for facial palsy. Objectives The objective of this review was to examine the efficacy of acupuncture in hastening recovery and reducing long-term morbidity […]
Calcium antagonists for Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Abstract Background Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive muscle condition starting in childhood, leading to severe disability and a shortened life span. It is due to severe deficiency of the protein dystrophin which performs both structural and signalling roles within skeletal and cardiac myocytes. Calcium accumulates in dystrophic muscle cells and plays a role […]