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Published on: September 12, 2020
Paraneoplastic syndromes causing movement disorders
Josep Dalmau1, Myrna R Rosenfeld
1Division of Neuro-oncology, Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19104, USA.
Handbook of Clinical Neurology
|April 19, 2011
Summary
Paraneoplastic neurological disorders are immune-mediated conditions linked to cancer, often presenting as movement disorders. Early identification and treatment of the underlying tumor can improve or stabilize neurological symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Immunology
Background:
- Paraneoplastic neurological disorders are a diverse group of syndromes associated with cancer, frequently preceding tumor diagnosis.
- Many are immune-mediated, targeting various nervous system sites and potentially causing movement disorders.
- Recent advances in identifying immune-mediated encephalitides have increased awareness of paraneoplastic movement disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline key diagnostic features of paraneoplastic movement disorders.
- To emphasize the importance of prompt tumor diagnosis and treatment.
- To highlight the role of immunotherapy and understanding disease course.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentations and diagnostic markers for paraneoplastic movement disorders.
- Emphasis on identifying rapid onset, cerebrospinal fluid inflammatory changes, and specific antineuronal antibodies.
- Discussion of treatment strategies including tumor removal and immunotherapy.
Main Results:
- Identification of specific clinical and serological markers aids in diagnosing paraneoplastic movement disorders.
- Prompt cancer treatment can lead to neurological symptom improvement or stabilization.
- Some patients may require immunotherapy alone for symptom management.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the immune-mediated mechanisms and natural history of paraneoplastic movement disorders is crucial.
- Accurate diagnosis minimizes unnecessary investigations and potentially harmful treatments.
- Integrated management involving oncology, neurology, and immunology offers the best outcomes.
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