Paraneoplastic Neuropathies

Abstract

This article provides an approach to the recognition and management of paraneoplastic neuropathies. Paraneoplastic neuropathies may have unique phenotypic presentations, such as sensory neuronopathy, autonomic enteric neuropathy, demyelinating neuropathy, and, rarely, motor neuropathy. Paraneoplastic sensorimotor neuropathy, on the other hand, may be indistinguishable from other common types of axonal polyneuropathy. Certain patterns of neuropathies are commonly seen with different types of cancers, but this relationship is not exclusive and not all patients whose pattern of neuropathy suggests a paraneoplastic disorder have an underlying cancer. In addition to definitive therapy for malignancy, immunomodulatory therapy, such as corticosteroids, IV immunoglobulin (IVIg), or immunosuppressants, may benefit some patients, but there are very few published treatment data for paraneoplastic neuropathies. Prompt recognition of paraneoplastic neuropathies may lead to identification and treatment of an occult cancer. Treatment can potentially arrest the progression of neuropathy.