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Paraneoplastic Autoimmune Limbic Encephalitis Associated with an Atypical Carcinoid Tumor of the Lung: A Case Report
Emma Marull Paretas1, Claudio De Vito2, Sabina Catalano-Chiuve1
1Division of Neurology, Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.
Abstract:
We report the case of a patient with a history of an atypical lung carcinoid tumor who developed a rapidly progressive memory impairment. The clinical presentation as well as brain MRI, cerebrospinal fluid, and laboratory tests led to the diagnosis of seronegative paraneoplastic autoimmune limbic encephalitis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case in literature of such association. This case also highlights an exceptionally favorable outcome, both clinically and radiologically, after immunosuppression and tumor removal.
Insights
A patient with lung carcinoid tumor developed autoimmune limbic encephalitis, a rare condition. Prompt treatment with immunosuppression and tumor removal led to a remarkable recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Immunology
Background:
- Atypical lung carcinoid tumors can present with rare neurological complications.
- Paraneoplastic autoimmune limbic encephalitis is a severe neurological disorder.
- Seronegative encephalitis lacks specific antibody markers.
Observation:
- A patient with a history of atypical lung carcinoid tumor experienced rapid memory decline.
- Clinical symptoms, brain MRI, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and lab tests were performed.
- The diagnostic process identified seronegative autoimmune limbic encephalitis.
Findings:
- This is the first reported case of an association between atypical lung carcinoid tumor and paraneoplastic autoimmune limbic encephalitis.
- The patient demonstrated an unusually positive response to treatment.
- Both clinical symptoms and radiological findings showed significant improvement.
Implications:
- This case expands the understanding of paraneoplastic syndromes associated with lung carcinoid tumors.
- It highlights the importance of considering autoimmune encephalitis in cancer patients with neurological symptoms.
- Early diagnosis and combined treatment (immunosuppression and tumor resection) can lead to favorable outcomes.
