What are Paraneoplastic Neurologic Syndromes

Paraneoplastic Neurologic Syndromes (PNS) are a group of rare disorders that occur in some individuals with cancer. These syndromes are caused by an abnormal immune response triggered by the presence of cancer cells in the body. PNS can affect various parts of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves.

One key characteristic of PNS is that they are not directly caused by the tumor itself or its metastasis, but rather by the immune system's response to the tumor. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the nervous system, leading to neurological symptoms.

PNS can manifest in different ways depending on the specific syndrome and the area of the nervous system affected. Symptoms may include muscle weakness, difficulty walking, loss of coordination, sensory disturbances, cognitive impairment, and autonomic dysfunction.

Early recognition and diagnosis of PNS are crucial for effective treatment. Diagnosis often involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging tests, blood tests, and sometimes a biopsy. Treatment aims to control the underlying cancer and suppress the immune response causing the neurological symptoms.

It is important for individuals with cancer to be aware of the possibility of developing PNS and to promptly report any neurological symptoms to their healthcare provider.