Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 22, 2026

Author Spotlight: Genetically Engineered Mouse Models and Pathological Characterization of Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Associated Tumors
Published on: May 17, 2024
Paraneoplastic neuropathies
Purpose Of Review:
This article provides an approach to the recognition and management of paraneoplastic neuropathies.
Recent Findings:
Paraneoplastic neuropathies may have unique phenotypic presentations, such as sensory neuronopathy, autonomic enteric neuropathy, demyelinating neuropathy, and, rarely, motor neuropathy. Paraneoplastic sensorimotor neuropathy, on the other hand, may be indistinguishable from other common types of axonal polyneuropathy. Certain patterns of neuropathies are commonly seen with different types of cancers, but this relationship is not exclusive and not all patients whose pattern of neuropathy suggests a paraneoplastic disorder have an underlying cancer. In addition to definitive therapy for malignancy, immunomodulatory therapy, such as corticosteroids, IV immunoglobulin (IVIg), or immunosuppressants, may benefit some patients, but there are very few published treatment data for paraneoplastic neuropathies.
Summary:
Prompt recognition of paraneoplastic neuropathies may lead to identification and treatment of an occult cancer. Treatment can potentially arrest the progression of neuropathy.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Cushing Syndrome II: Pathophysiology
Diabetic Neuropathy
Sympathetic Pathways: Sympathetic Chain Ganglia
Neural Regulation
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Neurokinin-1 Receptor Antagonists
Sympathetic Pathways: Collateral Ganglia and Adrenal Medulla
Collateral Ganglia
Sympathetic preganglionic axons reach the collateral ganglia along the route of splanchnic nerves. These nerves bypass the sympathetic trunk and communicate with sympathetic postganglionic neurons housed in the prevertebral ganglia. These ganglia supply the organs of the abdominopelvic cavity.
The greater splanchnic nerve, formed by the...

