[Paraneoplastic neurologic syndromes. Classification and diagnosis]

Paraneoplastic neurologic syndromes may be the presenting symptoms of cancer or appear during the course of the disease. Current knowledge of paraneoplastic syndromes is discussed on the basis of Henson and Urich's classification. The recognition of antineuronal antibodies in some neurologic paraneoplastic syndromes has had an impact on diagnostic possibilities. Additionally, there are new considerations relating to pathogenesis and therapy. Although the value and diagnostic yield of antineuronal antibodies are the subject of major discussion, they are already of significant diagnostic value in the diagnosis of paraneoplastic neurologic syndromes.