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Paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis associated with lung cancer
Kaini Shen1, Yan Xu2, Hongzhi Guan3
1Department of Internal Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, People's Republic of China.
Scientific Reports
|May 3, 2018
Summary
Paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis (PLE) in lung cancer patients can improve with immunotherapy, especially for those with GABABR antibodies. Prompt anti-cancer treatment also enhances neurological symptoms and survival outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Immunology
Background:
- Paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis (PLE) is a rare autoimmune disorder linked to lung cancer.
- Early identification of neurological symptoms and underlying malignancy is crucial for patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate clinical features, treatment responses, and prognoses of 16 lung cancer patients with PLE.
- To compare treatment efficacy based on autoantibody status and cancer stage.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 16 lung cancer patients diagnosed with PLE.
- Review of clinical data, autoantibody testing (GABABR, Hu), PET-CT findings, and treatment outcomes.
- Evaluation of responses to immunomodulatory therapy and chemotherapy.
Main Results:
- Common presentations included consciousness disturbance, disorientation, and seizures.
- GABABR antibodies were found in 8 patients, Hu antibodies in 8 patients.
- 11 patients received immunotherapy, with 4 showing improvement (all GABABR positive). 14/15 patients improved with chemotherapy.
- Overall cancer response rate was 75%, with a 2-year survival of 74.7%.
Conclusions:
- Patients with GABAB receptor encephalitis may respond better to immunotherapy than those with anti-Hu antibodies.
- Anti-cancer treatment is vital for improving neurological symptoms and overall survival in PLE patients.
- Limited-stage lung cancer patients with PLE may have a better prognosis due to timely diagnosis and treatment.
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