Paraneoplastic sensorimotor neuropathy associated with regression of small cell lung carcinoma

An elderly female smoker presented with nausea and anorexia. Imaging and histopathology were consistent with a diagnosis of small cell lung cancer (SCLC). She subsequently developed a progressive sensorimotor neuropathy with high titres of anti-Hu antibodies. Development of the neuropathy was associated with marked regression in the lung neoplasm. Repeat investigation with radioimaging and bronchoscopy showed no evidence of neoplasia. Paraneoplastic sensorimotor neuropathies are commonly associated with SCLC particularly in the presence of anti-Hu antibodies. Regression of SCLC with anti-Hu antibodies has only been reported twice previously. The authors believe this case supports the theory that anti-Hu antibodies confer anti-tumour activity causing tumour regression.