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Neuropathy and malignancy: a retrospective survey.
1Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021 Bergen, Norway. anette.storstein@haukeland.no
Journal of Neurology
|May 26, 2001
Summary
Peripheral neuropathy can signal underlying cancer. This study found 7.5% of idiopathic neuropathy cases were linked to malignancy, highlighting the need for cancer screening in such patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
Background:
- Peripheral neuropathy is a common neurological disorder with diverse etiologies.
- In some instances, neuropathy may be an early indicator of an occult malignancy.
Observation:
- This retrospective study reviewed 187 patients diagnosed with idiopathic peripheral neuropathy between 1981-1995.
- Patient records were cross-matched with the Norwegian Cancer Registry to identify potential links to cancer.
Findings:
- Cancer was identified as the probable cause in 14 patients (7.5%) initially diagnosed with idiopathic peripheral neuropathy.
- Neuropathic symptoms preceded tumor diagnosis in 8 patients and signaled recurrence in 3 others.
Implications:
- Idiopathic progressive neuropathy warrants suspicion of underlying malignancy, particularly with atypical symptoms.
- These findings emphasize the importance of cancer screening in patients presenting with unexplained peripheral neuropathy.
- Early detection of cancer-related neuropathy can improve patient outcomes through timely intervention.