Paraneoplastic and Idiopathic Ganglionopathy: Importance of Differential Diagnosis

Abstract

Sensory ganglionopathies (SG) may occur in association with different diseases and are characterized by the degeneration of the primary sensory neurons located in the dorsal root ganglia. The most important associated conditions are paraneoplastic SG, HIV infection, Sjogren's syndrome, and cisplatin or pyridoxine toxicity. Even when clinical criteria help differentiate SG from other neuropathies, an etiological diagnosis remains elusive. Thus, there is a need to identify biological markers than can distinguish immune-mediated SG from other etiologies. Objectives: The present study of two cases of SG compares their neurological outcomes with their treatment responses in accordance with the etiology of each one. Methods: evaluate the clinical presentation and examination results to be able to define the etiology and institute early treatment. Results: To differentiate paraneoplastic and idiopathic causes, more precise imaging techniques and paraneoplastic antibody tests are required. These diagnostic tools might be helpful in early diagnosis and treatment, thus affording the best chance of stabilizing the neurological symptoms. Conclusions: The identification of paraneoplastic antibodies before the onset of cancer can reduce the percentage of cases misdiagnosed as idiopathic, leading to early treatment and perhaps a more favorable prognosis.