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Younger DS. Critical illness-associated weakness and related motor disorders. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 195:707-777. [PMID: 37562893 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-98818-6.00031-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Weakness of limb and respiratory muscles that occurs in the course of critical illness has become an increasingly common and serious complication of adult and pediatric intensive care unit patients and a cause of prolonged ventilatory support, morbidity, and prolonged hospitalization. Two motor disorders that occur singly or together, namely critical illness polyneuropathy and critical illness myopathy, cause weakness of limb and of breathing muscles, making it difficult to be weaned from ventilatory support, commencing rehabilitation, and extending the length of stay in the intensive care unit, with higher rates of morbidity and mortality. Recovery can take weeks or months and in severe cases, and may be incomplete or absent. Recent findings suggest an improved prognosis of critical illness myopathy compared to polyneuropathy. Prevention and treatment are therefore very important. Its management requires an integrated team approach commencing with neurologic consultation, creatine kinase (CK) measurement, detailed electrodiagnostic, respiratory and neuroimaging studies, and potentially muscle biopsy to elucidate the etiopathogenesis of the weakness in the peripheral and/or central nervous system, for which there may be a variety of causes. These tenets of care are being applied to new cases and survivors of the coronavirus-2 disease pandemic of 2019. This chapter provides an update to the understanding and approach to critical illness motor disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Younger
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Neuroscience, CUNY School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States; Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine and Neurology, White Plains Hospital, White Plains, NY, United States.
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2
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Klose V, Jesse S, Lewerenz J, Kassubek J, Dorst J, Tumani H, Ludolph AC, Roselli F. CSF oligoclonal IgG bands are not associated with ALS progression and prognosis. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1170360. [PMID: 37213901 PMCID: PMC10196068 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1170360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by progressive motoneuron degeneration through cell autonomous and non-cell autonomous mechanisms; and the involvement of the innate and adaptive immune system has been hypothesized based on human and murine model data. We have explored if B-cell activation and IgG responses, as detected by IgG Oligoclonal bands (OCB) in serum and cerebrospinal fluid, were associated with ALS or with a subgroup of patients with distinct clinical features. Methods IgG OCB were determined in patients affected by ALS (n=457), Alzheimer Disease (n=516), Mild Cognitive Impairment (n=91), Tension-type Headache (n=152) and idiopathic Facial Palsy (n=94). For ALS patients, clinico-demographic and survival data were prospectively collected in the Register Schabia. Results The prevalence of IgG OCB is comparable in ALS and the four neurological cohorts. When the OCB pattern was considered (highlighting either intrathecal or systemic B-cells activation), no effect of OCB pattern on clinic-demographic parameters and overall. ALS patients with intrathecal IgG synthesis (type 2 and 3) were more likely to display infectious, inflammatory or systemic autoimmune conditions. Discussion These data suggest that OCB are not related to ALS pathophysiology but rather are a finding possibly indicative a coincidental infectious or inflammatory comorbidity that merits further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Klose
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)-Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Sarah Jesse
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)-Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jan Lewerenz
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jan Kassubek
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)-Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Johannes Dorst
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)-Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Hayrettin Tumani
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)-Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Albert C. Ludolph
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)-Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Neurozentrum Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- *Correspondence: Albert C. Ludolph,
| | - Francesco Roselli
- Department of Neurology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE)-Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Neurozentrum Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Francesco Roselli,
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Younger DS. Paraneoplastic motor disorders. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 196:231-250. [PMID: 37620071 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-98817-9.00018-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Paraneoplastic neurological disorders (PNDs) are heterogeneous clinicopathologic syndromes that occur throughout the neuraxis resulting from damage to organs or tissues remote from the site of a malignant neoplasm or its metastases. The discordance between severe neurological disability and even an indolent malignancy suggests an underlying neuroimmunologic host immune response that inflicts nervous tissue damage while inhibiting malignant tumor growth. Motor system involvement, like other symptoms and signs, is associated with focal or diffuse involvement of the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerve, neuromuscular junction or muscle, alone or in combination due to an underlying neuroimmune and neuroinflammatory process targeting neural-specific antigens. Unrecognized and therefore untreated, PNDs are often lethal making early detection and aggressive treatment of paramount importance. While the combination of clinical symptoms and signs, and analysis of detailed body and neuroimaging, clinical neurophysiology and electrodiagnostic studies, and tumor and nervous system tissue biopsies are all vitally important, the certain diagnosis of a PND rests with the discovery of a corresponding neural-specific paraneoplastic autoantibody in the blood and/or spinal cerebrospinal fluid.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Younger
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Neuroscience, CUNY School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States; Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine and Neurology, White Plains Hospital, White Plains, NY, United States.
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Younger DS. Neurogenetic motor disorders. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 195:183-250. [PMID: 37562870 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-98818-6.00003-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Advances in the field of neurogenetics have practical applications in rapid diagnosis on blood and body fluids to extract DNA, obviating the need for invasive investigations. The ability to obtain a presymptomatic diagnosis through genetic screening and biomarkers can be a guide to life-saving disease-modifying therapy or enzyme replacement therapy to compensate for the deficient disease-causing enzyme. The benefits of a comprehensive neurogenetic evaluation extend to family members in whom identification of the causal gene defect ensures carrier detection and at-risk counseling for future generations. This chapter explores the many facets of the neurogenetic evaluation in adult and pediatric motor disorders as a primer for later chapters in this volume and a roadmap for the future applications of genetics in neurology.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Younger
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Neuroscience, CUNY School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States; Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine and Neurology, White Plains Hospital, White Plains, NY, United States.
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Abstract
The scientific landscape surrounding amyotrophic lateral sclerosis has shifted immensely with a number of well-defined ALS disease-causing genes, each with related phenotypical and cellular motor neuron processes that have come to light. Yet in spite of decades of research and clinical investigation, there is still no etiology for sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and treatment options even for those with well-defined familial syndromes are still limited. This chapter provides a comprehensive review of the genetic basis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, highlighting factors that contribute to its heritability and phenotypic manifestations, and an overview of past, present, and upcoming therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Younger
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Neuroscience, CUNY School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States; Department of Medicine, Section of Internal Medicine and Neurology, White Plains Hospital, White Plains, NY, United States.
| | - Robert H Brown
- Department of Neurology, UMass Chan Medical School, Donna M. and Robert J. Manning Chair in Neurosciences and Director in Neurotherapeutics, Worcester, MA, United States
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6
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Barp A, Gerardi F, Lizio A, Sansone VA, Lunetta C. Emerging Drugs for the Treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Focus on Recent Phase 2 Trials. Expert Opin Emerg Drugs 2020; 25:145-164. [PMID: 32456491 DOI: 10.1080/14728214.2020.1769067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative disease involving both upper and lower motor neurons and resulting in increasing disability and death 3-5 years after onset of symptoms. Over 40 large clinical trials for ALS have been negative, except for Riluzole that offers a modest survival benefit, and Edaravone that modestly reduces disease progression in patients with specific characteristics. Thus, the discovery of efficient disease modifying therapy is an urgent need. AREAS COVERED Although the cause of ALS remains unclear, many studies have demonstrated that neuroinflammation, proteinopathies, glutamate-induced excitotoxicity, microglial activation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction may play a key role in the pathogenesis. This review highlights recent discoveries relating to these diverse mechanisms and their implications for the development of therapy. Ongoing phase 2 clinical trials aimed to interfere with these pathophysiological mechanisms are discussed. EXPERT OPINION This review describes the challenges that the discovery of an efficient drug therapy faces and how these issues may be addressed. With the continuous advances coming from basic research, we provided possible suggestions that may be considered to improve performance of clinical trials and turn ALS research into a 'fertile ground' for drug development for this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Barp
- NEuroMuscular Omnicentre, Fondazione Serena Onlus , Milan, Italy.,Dept. Biomedical Sciences of Health, University of Milan , Milan, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Lizio
- NEuroMuscular Omnicentre, Fondazione Serena Onlus , Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Ada Sansone
- NEuroMuscular Omnicentre, Fondazione Serena Onlus , Milan, Italy.,Dept. Biomedical Sciences of Health, University of Milan , Milan, Italy
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7
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Gold J, Rowe DB, Kiernan MC, Vucic S, Mathers S, van Eijk RPA, Nath A, Garcia Montojo M, Norato G, Santamaria UA, Rogers ML, Malaspina A, Lombardi V, Mehta PR, Westeneng HJ, van den Berg LH, Al-Chalabi A. Safety and tolerability of Triumeq in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: the Lighthouse trial. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2019; 20:595-604. [PMID: 31284774 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2019.1632899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Neuroinflammation and human endogenous retroviruses (HERV) are thought to have a role in the pathophysiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Therapy directed against endogenous retroviruses has demonstrated positive effects during in vitro and biomarker studies. Consequently, the present study was undertaken to assess the safety and tolerability of long-term antiretroviral therapy (ART), Triumeq (abacavir, lamivudine, and dolutegravir) exposure in patients with ALS, and efficacy against biomarkers of disease progression. Methods: Patients were observed during a 10-week lead-in period before receiving Triumeq treatment for 24 weeks at four specialist ALS centers. The primary outcomes were safety and tolerability. Secondary outcomes included HERV-K expression levels, urinary p75ECD levels, neurophysiological parameters, and clinical indicators. The ENCALS prediction model was applied to provide an estimate of the cohort survival. The trial was registered (NCT02868580). Findings: 40 patients with ALS received Triumeq and 35 (88%) completed treatment. There were no drug-related serious adverse events; one patient was withdrawn from the study due to a drug-associated increase in liver enzymes. A favorable response on HERV-K expression levels was observed, accompanied by a decline in ALSFRS-R progression rate of 21.8% (95% CI -4.8%-48.6%) and the amount of urinary p75ECD measured. One patient died five months after stopping treatment, while five were expected to have died during the treatment period (interquartile range 2-8). Interpretation: Long-term Triumeq exposure was safe and well tolerated in this cohort. There was suggestive indication for a possible biological response in some pharmacodynamic and clinical biomarkers. A larger international phase 3 trial will be deployed to assess the effect of Triumeq on overall survival and disease progression. Funding: Funding was provided by the FightMND Foundation; MND Research Institute of Australia; MND Association, United Kingdom, and GSK. ViiV Healthcare provided the Triumeq.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Gold
- Prince of Wales Hospital, The Albion Centre and Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney , Australia
- King's College London, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience , London , United Kingdom
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London , London , United Kingdom
| | - Dominic B Rowe
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University , Sydney , Australia
| | - Matthew C Kiernan
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney and Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital , Sydney , Australia
| | - Steve Vucic
- Department of Neurology, Westmead Hospital , Sydney , Australia
| | - Susan Mathers
- Department of Neurology, Calvary Health Care Bethlehem , Melbourne , Australia
| | - Ruben P A van Eijk
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Utrecht , Utrecht , Netherlands
| | - Avindra Nath
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Section of Infections of the Nervous System , Bethesda , MD , USA
| | - Marta Garcia Montojo
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Section of Infections of the Nervous System , Bethesda , MD , USA
| | - Gina Norato
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Section of Infections of the Nervous System , Bethesda , MD , USA
| | - Ulisses A Santamaria
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Section of Infections of the Nervous System , Bethesda , MD , USA
| | - Mary-Louise Rogers
- Centre for Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University , Adelaide , Australia
| | - Andrea Malaspina
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London , London , United Kingdom
| | - Vittoria Lombardi
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London , London , United Kingdom
| | - Puja R Mehta
- King's College London, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience , London , United Kingdom
| | - Henk-Jan Westeneng
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Utrecht , Utrecht , Netherlands
| | | | - Ammar Al-Chalabi
- King's College London, Maurice Wohl Clinical Neuroscience Institute, Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience , London , United Kingdom
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La Bella V, Iannitto E, Cuffaro L, Spataro R. A rapidly progressive motor neuron disease associated to a natural killer cells leukaemia. J Neurol Sci 2019; 398:117-118. [PMID: 30708207 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2019.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo La Bella
- ALS Clinical Research Center, BioNeC, University of Palermo, 90129 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Emilio Iannitto
- Hematology Unit, Department of Oncology, University Hospital "P Giaccone", 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Luca Cuffaro
- ALS Clinical Research Center, BioNeC, University of Palermo, 90129 Palermo, Italy
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Abstract
ABSTRACT:In recognition of the 100th anniversary of Charcot’s death we have reviewed possible pathogenic mechanisms in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Advances in the last 5 years in molecular biology and genetics have identified mutations in the cytosolic dismutase (SODI) gene in some patients with familial ALS raising the possibility that oxidative stress may be involved in the pathogenesis. An excitotoxic pathogenesis has been implicated based on elevated plasma and CSF levels of amino acids and altered contents of amino acids in the nervous system of ALS patients and changes in the number of excitatory amino acid receptors. ALS sera containing antibodies to L-type calcium channels and the development of immune mediated lower and upper and lower motor neuron models have revitalized research efforts focusing on an immune basis for ALS. Other pathogenic mechanisms which have been the subject of recent research include elemental toxicity, apoptosis and programmed cell death and possibly a deficiency or abnormality in growth factors. Pathogenic processes for ALS must account for an increasing incidence of ALS, male preponderance, and the selective vulnerability of the corticomotoneuronal system.
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10
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Grisold W, Grisold A, Marosi C, Meng S, Briani C. Neuropathies associated with lymphoma †. Neurooncol Pract 2015; 2:167-178. [PMID: 31386037 DOI: 10.1093/nop/npv025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropathy occurs with various manifestations as a consequence of lymphoma, and an understanding of the etiology is necessary for proper treatment. Advances in medical imaging have improved the detection of peripheral nerve involvement in lymphoma, yet tissue diagnosis is often equally important. The neoplastic involvement of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) in lymphoma can occur within the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), inside the dura, or outside of the CSF space, affecting nerve root plexuses and peripheral nerves. The infiltration of either cranial or peripheral nerves in lymphoma is termed neurolymphomatosis (NL). These infiltrations can occur as mononeuropathy, multifocal neuropathy, symmetric neuropathies, or plexopathies. In rare cases, intravascular lymphoma (IL) can affect the PNS and an even rarer condition is the combination of NL and IL. Immune-mediated and paraneoplastic neuropathies are important considerations when treating patients with lymphoma. Demyelinating neuropathies, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy, occur more frequently in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma than in Hodgkin's disease. Paraproteinemic neuropathies can be associated with lymphoma and paraneoplastic neuropathies are rare. While the treatment of lymphomas has improved, a knowledge of neurotoxic, radiotherapy, neoplastic, immune-mediated and paraneoplastic effects are important for patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Grisold
- Department of Neurology, Kaiser Franz Josef Hospital, Kundratstraße 3, Vienna 1100, Austria (W.G.); Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Gürtel 18-20, Vienna 1090, Austria (A.G.); Department of Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Gürtel 18-20, Vienna 1090, Austria (C.M.); Department of Radiology, Kaiser Franz Josef Hospital, Kundratstraße 3, Vienna 1100, Austria (S.M.); Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 5, Padova 35128, Italy (C.B.)
| | - Anna Grisold
- Department of Neurology, Kaiser Franz Josef Hospital, Kundratstraße 3, Vienna 1100, Austria (W.G.); Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Gürtel 18-20, Vienna 1090, Austria (A.G.); Department of Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Gürtel 18-20, Vienna 1090, Austria (C.M.); Department of Radiology, Kaiser Franz Josef Hospital, Kundratstraße 3, Vienna 1100, Austria (S.M.); Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 5, Padova 35128, Italy (C.B.)
| | - Christine Marosi
- Department of Neurology, Kaiser Franz Josef Hospital, Kundratstraße 3, Vienna 1100, Austria (W.G.); Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Gürtel 18-20, Vienna 1090, Austria (A.G.); Department of Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Gürtel 18-20, Vienna 1090, Austria (C.M.); Department of Radiology, Kaiser Franz Josef Hospital, Kundratstraße 3, Vienna 1100, Austria (S.M.); Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 5, Padova 35128, Italy (C.B.)
| | - Stefan Meng
- Department of Neurology, Kaiser Franz Josef Hospital, Kundratstraße 3, Vienna 1100, Austria (W.G.); Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Gürtel 18-20, Vienna 1090, Austria (A.G.); Department of Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Gürtel 18-20, Vienna 1090, Austria (C.M.); Department of Radiology, Kaiser Franz Josef Hospital, Kundratstraße 3, Vienna 1100, Austria (S.M.); Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 5, Padova 35128, Italy (C.B.)
| | - Chiara Briani
- Department of Neurology, Kaiser Franz Josef Hospital, Kundratstraße 3, Vienna 1100, Austria (W.G.); Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Gürtel 18-20, Vienna 1090, Austria (A.G.); Department of Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Gürtel 18-20, Vienna 1090, Austria (C.M.); Department of Radiology, Kaiser Franz Josef Hospital, Kundratstraße 3, Vienna 1100, Austria (S.M.); Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 5, Padova 35128, Italy (C.B.)
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Bortz H, Coutsouvelis J, Corallo CE, Spencer A, Patil S. Modifying chemotherapeutic management of a patient with Burkitt's lymphoma and pre-existing motor neurone disease. J Clin Pharm Ther 2015; 40:483-5. [PMID: 26073601 DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.12293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE Intensive chemotherapy for treatment of Burkitt's lymphoma (BL) - a high-grade lymphoproliferative disorder (LPD) - can cause neurotoxicity. An association between motor neurone disease (MND) and LPDs has previously been described, but there is a lack of recommendations available to guide management of such patients. This report aims to describe suitable management of BL in a patient with MND. CASE DESCRIPTION A 66-year-old woman with a history of MND affecting her limbs was diagnosed with bulky, extranodal, high-risk gastric BL. Standard chemotherapy is with multiple non-cross-resistant cytotoxic agents. To avoid exacerbation of neuropathy, six cycles of a modified regimen was planned, aiming to minimize exposure to the most neurotoxic agents. A PET-FDG-negative remission was obtained at 12 months, without the signs of central neurotoxicity, peripheral neuropathy or muscle weakness. WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION High-intensity chemotherapy, minimizing known neurotoxic agents, was delivered safely and effectively in a patient with BL and pre-existing MND. More case descriptions are required to guide management decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Bortz
- Pharmacy Department, Alfred Health, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - J Coutsouvelis
- Pharmacy Department, Alfred Health, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - C E Corallo
- Pharmacy Department, Alfred Health, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - A Spencer
- Department of Malignant Haematology and Stem Cell Transplantation, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - S Patil
- Department of Malignant Haematology and Stem Cell Transplantation, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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Struck AF, Salamat S, Waclawik AJ. Motor neuron disease with selective degeneration of anterior horn cells associated with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. J Clin Neuromuscul Dis 2014; 16:83-89. [PMID: 25415520 DOI: 10.1097/cnd.0000000000000056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We describe an autopsy-confirmed case of motor neuron disease with selective degeneration of the anterior horn cells associated with a non-Hodgkin lymphoma. METHODS Case report, including extensive autopsy studies. RESULTS The patient developed severe fasciculations and then progressive atrophy and weakness several months after the diagnosis and initial treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. As the disease progressed, needle electromyography showed diffuse severe denervation changes including thoracic paraspinal muscles. Autopsy showed severe loss of anterior horn cells with associated gliosis and preservation of cortical spinal tracts and Betz cells. CONCLUSIONS This case provides an autopsy evidence of severe anterior horn cell degeneration in the course of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, raising the possibility that the neurologic syndrome, characterized by lower motor neuron disease, may represent a paraneoplastic process. Similar cases have been reported previously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron F Struck
- Departments of *Neurology and †Pathology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI
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13
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Abstract
The progression of motor neurone disease (MND) is currently irreversible, and the grave implications of diagnosis naturally fuels concern among neurologists over missing a potential mimic disorder. There is no diagnostic test for MND but in reality there are few plausible mimics in routine clinical practice. In the presence of a progressive pure motor disorder, signs such as florid fasciculations, bilateral tongue wasting, the ‘split hand’, head drop, emotionality, and cognitive or behavioural impairment carry high positive predictive value. MND is clinically heterogeneous, however, with some important chameleon-like presentations and considerable variation in clinical course. Lack of confidence about the scope of such variation, or an approach to diagnosis emphasising investigations over clinical common sense, has the potential to exacerbate diagnostic delay in MND and impede timely planning of the care which is essential to maximising quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin R Turner
- University of Oxford Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford, UK.
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14
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Younger DS, Graber J, Hayakawa-Yano Y, Parveen S, Frank M, Darnell RB. Ri/Nova gene-associated paraneoplastic subacute motor neuronopathy. Muscle Nerve 2013; 47:617-8. [PMID: 23463350 DOI: 10.1002/mus.23783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2012] [Revised: 01/02/2013] [Accepted: 01/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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15
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Rentzos M, Evangelopoulos ME, Sereti E, Zouvelou V, Marmara S, Alexakis T, Evdokimidis I. Humoral immune activation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients. Neurol Int 2013; 5:e3. [PMID: 23717782 PMCID: PMC3661984 DOI: 10.4081/ni.2013.e3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2012] [Accepted: 10/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
There is evidence that immunological factors may involved in the pathogenetic mechanisms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Few studies to date have explored the status of the humoral immune response in patients with ALS. We examined the presence of humoral immune activation in ALS patients, serum immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA and IgM) levels were measured in 36 patients with ALS and 35 normal controls. Serum IgG, IgM and IgA levels were not significantly different in our ALS patients compared with the control group (P=ns). No correlations of serum IgG, IgM and IgA concentrations with duration, severity of the disease or the clinical form of onset (bulbar or spinal) were found in our ALS patients. Our results do not suggest a humoral immune activation in ALS patients. This does not exclude that immunological mechanisms may be involved in ALS pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Rentzos
- Department of Neurology, Aeginition Hospital, Athens National University, School of Medicine
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17
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Martinelli P, Mitri P, Macrì S, Nassetti S, Scaglione C. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma mimicking amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Eur J Neurol 2011. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-1331.1996.tb00255.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Sola P, Merelli E, Levani M, Giovannetti R, Barozzi P. Human herpes virus 6 (HHV-6) in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) study. Eur J Neurol 2011. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-1331.1996.tb00223.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Rison RA, Beydoun SR. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-motor neuron disease, monoclonal gammopathy, hyperparathyroidism, and B12 deficiency: case report and review of the literature. J Med Case Rep 2010; 4:298. [PMID: 20809955 PMCID: PMC2941760 DOI: 10.1186/1752-1947-4-298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2009] [Accepted: 09/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (the most common form of motor neuron disease) is a progressive and devastating disease involving both lower and upper motor neurons, typically following a relentless path towards death. Given the gravity of this diagnosis, all efforts must be made by the clinician to exclude alternative and more treatable entities. Frequent serology testing involves searching for treatable disorders, including vitamin B12 deficiency, parathyroid anomalies, and monoclonal gammopathies. Case presentation We present the case of a 78-year-old Caucasian man with all three of the aforementioned commonly searched for disorders during an investigation for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Conclusions The clinical utility of these common tests and what they ultimately mean in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is discussed, along with a review of the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Rison
- Neurology Consultants Medical Group, Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital, Whittier, CA, USA.
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20
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Nobile-Orazio E, Carpo M, Meucci N. Are there immunologically treatable motor neuron diseases? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/167-146608201300079382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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21
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Le Forestier N, Meininger V. [Primary lateral sclerosis: the era of international diagnosis criteria]. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2008; 165:415-29. [PMID: 18842276 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2008.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2008] [Revised: 06/06/2008] [Accepted: 07/22/2008] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Since Charcot's first description, primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) remains a rare clinical syndrome, a neuropathological phenotype of motor system degeneration. In turn, PLS has been described as belonging to the large spectrum of motoneuron diseases or to the diverse degenerative diseases of the nervous system. Clinically, it is characterized by progressive pyramidal involvement in patients who present insidiously progressive gait disorders and, on examination, have relatively symmetrical lower limb weakness, increased muscle tone, pathologic hyper-reflexia, and exaggerated extensor plantar responses. Pinprick, light touch, and temperature sensations are preserved. Viewed in another way, PLS mimicks progressive hereditary spastic paraparesis (HSP) and the "central" phenotype of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). PLS is considered "idiopathic" and, depending on the presence or absence of similarly affected family members, the syndrome of idiopathic HSP and ALS are labeled "hereditary" or "apparently sporadic". The juvenile form of PLS and early age at onset in cases of HSP complicate our understanding of the relationship between these two disorders. Guidelines for diagnosis and genetic counseling have been published for HSP and ALS. Recently, since the first international workshop, guidelines for diagnosis of PLS propose a classification system, e.g. for heterogeneous HSP into "pure PLS", complicated or "plus PLS", symptomatic PLS and upper motor neuron-dominant ALS. However, when reviewing known cases of PLS drawn from the literature, rigorous retrospective application of these new PLS criteria raises an unanswered question: does pure PLS exist?
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Affiliation(s)
- N Le Forestier
- Pôle des maladies du système nerveux, fédération de neurologie, hôpital de la Salpêtrière, 47-83, boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75651 Paris cedex 13, France.
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22
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Koc F, Paydas S, Yerdelen D, Demirkiran M. Motor neuron disease associated with multiple myeloma. Int J Neurosci 2008; 118:337-41. [PMID: 18300006 DOI: 10.1080/00207450701242644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The association between Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or other Motor Neuron Diseases (MNDs) with Lymphoproliferative Disorders (LPDs) and plasma cell neoplasias (such as Hodgkin's or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia, multiple myeloma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia) has been described. It is not clear whether LPDs play a role in the pathogenesis of MND; however it is possible that patients might have antibodies against motor neurons. An association between motor neuron disease and Multiple myeloma (MM) is rarely reported in the literature. This article reports a case of a 75-year-old male with MM and MND. Interestingly, the patient was in complete remission for MM when he was diagnosed as MND and he died due to progressive MND.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filiz Koc
- Department of Neurology, Cukurova University, Faculty of Medical, Adana, Turkey.
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23
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Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, degenerative disease of the motor system characterized by signs and symptoms of upper and lower motor dysfunction. This results in the presence of focal amyotrophies and pareses affecting voluntary muscles. Patients die after a few years, in most cases by respiratory failure. ALS is the most frequent motor neuron disease; however, its etiology and pathogenesis are only known in fragments. Its genetic basis is only partially understood and major gaps remain in the understanding of its pathogenesis with the basic principle of selective vulnerability and potentially resulting therapeutic consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Gastl
- Abteilung für Neurologie, Universität Ulm, Oberer Eselsberg 45, Ulm, Germany
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24
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25
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Simmons Z. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis–Like Syndromes Associated with Malignancy. Neurobiol Dis 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-012088592-3/50047-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
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26
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Viala K. Dixièmes Journées des Maladies du Système Nerveux Périphérique Neuropathies associées aux lymphomas. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2006; 162:1273-8. [PMID: 17151523 DOI: 10.1016/s0035-3787(06)75145-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral neurological complications of lymphomas are rare, but all types of neuropathy can be observed in the context of lymphoma. This great clinical heterogeneity can be related to the variety of pathological processes that can affect the peripheral nerve or be linked to the different subtypes of lymphoma. In addition to the common causes of peripheral nerve involvement, such as iatrogenic toxicity, there are mechanisms that are more specifically related to lymphomas, such as nerve tumor infiltration, or dysimmune perturbations induced by the hemopathy. These dysimmune processes can result in various neuropathies, such as inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy, or neuropathies secondary to the secretion of a monoclonal immunoglobulin. Identifying the mechanism of the neuropathy is necessary in order to determine the therapeutic options and to improve the prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Viala
- Fédération de Neurophysiologie Clinique, Assistance des Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), Université Paris VI.
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27
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Pradat PF, Bruneteau G. Quels sont les diagnostics differentiels et les formes frontières de SLA ? Rev Neurol (Paris) 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/s0035-3787(06)75168-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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28
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Tranchant C. Quelle est la place des autres examens complémentaires ? Rev Neurol (Paris) 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/s0035-3787(06)75165-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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29
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Abstract
The term "paraneoplastic neurological syndromes" encompasses a number of uncommon disorders associated with systemic malignancies. In order to be classified a paraneoplastic neurological syndrome, the malignancies must not invade, compress, or metastasize to the nervous system. They can either focally or diffusely involve the central and peripheral nervous system or the neuromuscular junction. This paper reviews the neuropathology of the syndrome. It will first describe the clinical presentation and give an account of the systemic tumors most commonly associated with the various types of disorders. Then it will review the general pathological features that consist of an inflammatory process predominantly affecting the gray matter. Finally, it will describe in detail the main clinico-pathological types, including 1) encephalomyelitis, 2) cortical cerebellar degeneration, 3) peripheral neuropathy, 4) opsoclonus-myoclonus and 5) retinopathy. The Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome will be dealt with separately in another paper in this symposium.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Scaravilli
- Department of Neuropathology, Institute of Neurology, The National Hospital Queen Square, London, UK.
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30
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Stern BV, Baehring JM, Kleopa KA, Hochberg FH. Multifocal motor neuropathy with conduction block associated with metastatic lymphoma of the nervous system. J Neurooncol 2006; 78:81-4. [PMID: 16554970 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-005-9060-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral neuropathies occur in 5% of patients with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma and represent the effects of therapy, direct compression or nerve infiltration by tumor, or paraneoplastic effects. Multifocal motor neuropathy with conduction block (MMNCB) is a rare demyelinating disorder of unknown etiology characterized by progressive, distal, asymmetric weakness mostly of the upper limbs with minimal or no sensory loss. We report a patient, who developed MMNCB at the time of isolated CNS relapse from a diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Marked neurological improvement was achieved using intravenous immunoglobulin treatment. To our knowledge, MMNCB has thus far not been described as part of the spectrum of lymphoma-related peripheral neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britta V Stern
- Department of Neurology, Brain Tumor Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
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31
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Abstract
This treatise briefly discusses the genetic features of ALS and reviews environmental exposures in sporadic ALS. At least 10 genetic foci are responsible for cases of familial motor neuron disease and more are yet to be discovered. Research into sporadic ALS suggests that abundant factors apparently participate in the disease process. A singular cause and unifying disease and nerve dysfunction in polyneuropathies, a multitude of genetic, toxic, autoimmune, infectious, and systematic processes seem to be at play. The ALS syndrome likely will not be dissimilar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew P Wicklund
- Department of Neurology, Wilford Hall Medical Center, 59MDOS/MMCN, 2200 Bergquist Drive, Suite 1, Lackland Air Force Base, TX 78236, USA.
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32
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Abstract
Lymphoma occasionally affects the peripheral nervous system. When it does, the diagnosis can be elusive since many patients present without known lymphoma. Most peripheral nerve complications are due to non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), which infiltrates nerves causing axonal damage. This disorder can affect nerve roots and cranial nerves, often associated with lymphomatous meningitis. NHL may also infiltrate peripheral nerves and cause plexopathy, mononeuropathy, or generalized neuropathy. These neuropathies may resemble an asymmetric mononeuropathy multiplex or a generalized disorder such as chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy. When NHL infiltrates diffusely, the term neurolymphomatosis is used. Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL), by contrast, rarely infiltrates nerves. More often, HL causes immunological disorders of the peripheral nervous system such as inflammatory plexopathy or Guillain-Barré syndrome. Other rare lymphomas such as intravascular lymphoma and Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia can also affect peripheral nerves in specific ways. In addition, other malignant and nonmalignant lymphoproliferative disorders enter into the differential diagnosis of lymphomatous neuropathy. This review discusses the multiple peripheral nerve presentations of lymphoma from the clinician's point of view and provides a guide to the evaluation and diagnosis of these uncommon, challenging disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- John J Kelly
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University Medical Center, 2150 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037, USA.
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33
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Abstract
The new WHO classification of hematopoietic and lymphatic neoplasms was devised to offer pathologists, oncologists, and geneticists a system of classification based on histopathologic, clinical, and genetic features. From the neurologic standpoint, it offers an opportunity to consolidate the complications produced by leukemias, lymphomas, and plasma cell dyscrasias. This article summarizes such complications that occur as a result of direct infiltration or compression of nervous tissue by tumor or as a result of indirect effects such as infection, vascular disorders, iatrogenesis, and paraneoplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence Recht
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
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34
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Abstract
Cancer can affect the nervous system through many metastatic and nonmetastatic mechanisms, including side effects of cancer treatment, infections, coagulopathy, and metabolic or nutritional deficits. Paraneoplastic neurologic disorders (PND) are an extensive group of syndromes that cannot be explained by any of these complications and may affect any part of the nervous system. PND often develop before the presence of a cancer is known and their recognition may lead to the tumor diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Bataller
- Department of Neurology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
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35
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Affiliation(s)
- M Corbo
- Department of Neurology, University of Milan, Scientific Institute San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
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36
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Berghs S, Ferracci F, Maksimova E, Gleason S, Leszczynski N, Butler M, De Camilli P, Solimena M. Autoimmunity to beta IV spectrin in paraneoplastic lower motor neuron syndrome. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2001; 98:6945-50. [PMID: 11391009 PMCID: PMC34458 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.121170798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Paraneoplastic neurological disorders may result from autoimmunity directed against antigens shared by the affected neurons and the associated cancer cells. We have recently reported the case of a woman with breast cancer and paraneoplastic lower motor neuron syndrome whose serum contained autoantibodies directed against axon initial segments and nodes of Ranvier of myelinated axons, including the axons of motoneurons. Here, we show that major targets of the autoantibodies of this patient are betaIVSigma1 spectrin and betaIV spectrin 140, two isoforms of the novel betaIV spectrin gene, as well as a neuronal surface epitope yet to be identified. Partial improvement of the neurological symptoms following cancer removal was associated with a drastic reduction in the titer of the autoantibodies against betaIV spectrin and nodal antigens in general, consistent with the autoimmune pathogenesis of the paraneoplastic lower motor neuron syndrome. The identification of betaIV spectrin isoforms and surface nodal antigens as novel autoimmune targets in lower motor neuron syndrome provide new insights into the pathogenesis of this severe neurological disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Berghs
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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37
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Abstract
Cancer can affect the peripheral nervous system by non-metastatic, sometimes immune-mediated mechanisms. Recognition of these paraneoplastic syndromes is important because it can lead to the detection of the tumor, and also helps to avoid unnecessary studies to determine the cause of the neurologic symptoms in patients with cancer. Many paraneoplastic syndromes of the peripheral nervous system are not associated with serum antibodies that serve as markers of paraneoplasia. For this group of disorders the diagnosis depends on the clinician's index of suspicion and conventional electrophysiologic and laboratory tests. Treatment of the tumor, immunotherapy, or both may improve some of these syndromes. This review focuses on paraneoplastic syndromes of the spinal cord, peripheral nerve, and muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Rudnicki
- Department of Neurology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 West Markham, Slot 500, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205, USA
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38
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Bir LS, Keskin A, Yaren A, Sermez Y, Oğuzhanoğlu A, Sahiner T. Lower motor neuron disease associated with myelofibrosis. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2000; 102:109-12. [PMID: 10817899 DOI: 10.1016/s0303-8467(00)00072-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
We present a patient who has signs pointing to the involvement of lower motor neurons and myelofibrosis. To our knowledge, unlike lymphoproliferative disorders, co-occurrence of myelofibrosis and lower motor neuron disease (MND) has not been reported so far. A 64-year-old male patient was admitted to our hospital with the complaint of painful cramps in his neck and forearms. On physical examination marked hepatomegaly and splenomegaly were found. On neurologic examination nasal quality of the voice and slight palatal weakness were detected. There were generalised slight weakness and atrophy in both proximal and distal muscle groups. Fasciculations were observed especially in forearm muscles and it was observed that he had been avoiding head movements because of painful muscle cramps. Deep tendon reflexes were hypoactive. Nerve conduction studies were normal. By needle electromyography, giant motor unit action potentials (amplitudes up to 8 mV), fibrillation potentials, positive sharp waves and fasciculation potentials were detected in all muscles which were investigated. A hypercellular bone marrow (100%) was determined by bone marrow biopsy. In addition to increased production of the myeloid and megakaryocytic lines, abnormal aggregation and grouping of megakaryocytes were seen. Reticular fibers were increased. He had some benefit of dyphenilhydantoin treatment given for the painful cramps in his neck and forearm muscles. Hydroxyurea treatment was started for myelofibrosis. Six months later, his general condition was better, and the painful cramps were completely resolved. No marked deterioration has been detected in neurologic examination and electromyography for 1 year.
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Affiliation(s)
- L S Bir
- Department of Neurology, Pamukkale University Medical Faculty, Denizli, Turkey
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39
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40
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Abstract
A 56-year-old female presented with mild low back pain. Examination revealed severe, selective atrophy of the thoracic and lumbar paraspinal muscles. Fibrillations were seen in the paraspinal muscles on EMG. Limb EMG was normal. Biopsy of the gluteus maximus was normal. Paraspinal muscle biopsy revealed neurogenic features. Atrophy of the thoracic and lumbar paraspinal muscles was noted on magnetic resonance imaging. This patient has selective amyotrophy of the thoracic and lumbar paraspinal muscles. This may be an addition to the spectrum of 'benign focal amyotrophy'. The differential diagnosis of paraspinal muscle weakness is discussed.
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MESH Headings
- Biopsy
- Diagnosis, Differential
- Electromyography
- Female
- Humans
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/complications
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- Middle Aged
- Muscle, Skeletal/pathology
- Muscle, Skeletal/physiopathology
- Muscular Disorders, Atrophic/complications
- Muscular Disorders, Atrophic/diagnosis
- Muscular Disorders, Atrophic/pathology
- Muscular Disorders, Atrophic/physiopathology
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Affiliation(s)
- P Narayanaswami
- Department of Neurology, University of Tennessee, 855 Monroe Avenue Rm. 415, 38163, Memphis, TN, USA
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41
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Ferracci F, Fassetta G, Butler MH, Floyd S, Solimena M, De Camilli P. A novel antineuronal antibody in a motor neuron syndrome associated with breast cancer. Neurology 1999; 53:852-5. [PMID: 10489053 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.53.4.852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A 72-year-old woman developed a lower motor neuron syndrome (MNS) 4 months before the appearance of breast cancer. Monoparesis progressed to quadriparesis despite high-dose IV immunoglobulins, plasma exchange, and azathioprine, and high-dose IV methylprednisolone. The patient improved only after the removal of the tumor. MRI demonstrated hyperintensities in the cervical spinal cord. The patient had antibodies that reacted with axonal initial segments and nodes of Ranvier. The findings suggest that in this patient lower MNS may be a paraneoplastic condition associated with breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Ferracci
- Department of Neurology, Ospedale di Belluno, Italy
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42
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Case records of the Massachusetts General Hospital. Weekly clinicopathological exercises. Case 16-1999. A 71-year-old man with progressive weakness and a gammopathy. N Engl J Med 1999; 340:1661-9. [PMID: 10341279 DOI: 10.1056/nejm199905273402108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
MESH Headings
- Aged
- Bone Marrow Examination
- Diagnosis, Differential
- Fatal Outcome
- Gangliosides/chemistry
- Gangliosides/immunology
- Humans
- Hypergammaglobulinemia/etiology
- Immunoglobulin G/cerebrospinal fluid
- Immunoglobulin M/blood
- Immunoglobulin M/cerebrospinal fluid
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/complications
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/immunology
- Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/pathology
- Male
- Muscle Weakness/etiology
- Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia/complications
- Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia/immunology
- Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia/pathology
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43
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Abstract
Since 1965 when the first paraneoplastic antineuronal antibody was reported by Wilkinson and Zeromski (55), the number of immunological responses detected in association with paraneoplastic syndromes of the nervous system has steadily increased. These responses are characterized by the presence of antineuronal antibodies in serum and CSF and/or infiltrates of T-cells in the tumor and nervous system. A few syndromes are mediated by antibodies; they include those resulting from dysfunction of the neuromuscular junction at the pre- or post-synaptic level (Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, myasthenia gravis) or ion channel dysfunction in the peripheral nervous system (i.e, Voltage-gated potassium channel and neuromyotonia). In most other paraneoplastic syndromes, including those involving the central nervous system, the pathogenic role of highly specific antineuronal antibodies (anti-Hu, anti-Yo, etc.) has not been established; nevertheless these antibodies should be regarded as useful markers of specific paraneoplastic syndromes and tumors. Moreover, there is increasing evidence that in some of these syndromes T-cell mediated mechanisms can cause the neurologic dysfunction and contribute to tumor rejection. Some paraneoplastic syndromes are caused by the tumor secretion of antibodies (macroglobulinemia and MAG antibodies), hormones, and cytokines. In other instances, the tumor may compete with the nervous system for an essential substrate (glucose, tryptophan) and result in neurologic dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Dalmau
- Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
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44
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Forman D, Rae-Grant AD, Matchett SC, Cowen JS. A reversible cause of hypercapnic respiratory failure: lower motor neuronopathy associated with renal cell carcinoma. Chest 1999; 115:899-901. [PMID: 10084515 DOI: 10.1378/chest.115.3.899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a unique case of a patient with a reversible paraneoplastic motor neuronopathy who presented with hypercapnic respiratory failure. The patient developed progressive respiratory and limb muscle weakness until treated with removal of a renal cell carcinoma, which was followed by a complete resolution of neuromuscular symptoms. The literature of paraneoplastic motor neuronopathies is reviewed, specifically in reference to respiratory failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Forman
- Department of Medicine, Lehigh Valley Hospital, Allentown, PA, USA
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45
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Abstract
Primary lateral sclerosis is an uncommon, distinct clinical entity. We report a patient with primary lateral sclerosis in whom investigations revealed an IgM monoclonal gammopathy, raised CSF protein and persistently high ESR. A number of reports suggest that lymphoproliferative disorders, paraproteinemia and clinico-pathological syndromes mimicking motor neuron diseases may be associated. We discuss the clinical features noted in our patient in relation to these reports, and the possible pathogenetic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Desai
- Department of Neurology, The Royal London Hospital, Whitechapel, UK.
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46
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Abstract
The therapy of paraneoplastic neurologic syndromes remains unclear and warrants a systematic review of the literature. Reports in English and foreign language literature were abstracted. Data were sorted by the primary paraneoplastic neurologic syndrome, the primary malignancy, and the methods of treatment. Neurologic improvement follows surgical, chemotherapeutic, and radiation treatments. Adjuvant immunosuppressive therapy with steroids, plasmapheresis, or immunoglobulin may help stabilize the progression of neurologic symptoms. Syndromes characterized by inflammation or neurotransmitter production without neuronal loss are most responsive to therapy. While treatment of the underlying cancer with appropriate surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation is recommended, the paraneoplastic syndrome should probably be managed with immunosuppressive therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Das
- National University of Singapore, Singapore
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47
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Abstract
Autoimmune serological testing is a useful aid for identifying a paraneoplastic basis for sporadic motor neuron disease. A 67-year-old woman with ovarian carcinoma presented with progressive weakness. Neurological examination was suggestive of motor neuron disease with signs of upper motor neuron disorder. Electromyography revealed severe motor neuronopathy of the upper extremities. Characteristic type 1 Purkinje cell antibodies (anti-Yo antibody) was detected in the serum diluted at 1:61,400.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Khwaja
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Health Sciences Center, Detroit, Michigan 48202, USA
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48
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Baud P, Parant E, Loison F, Ménage JJ. [IgM kappa lymphoma with antisulfatide antibodies revealed by cervical motor neuropathy simulating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis]. Rev Med Interne 1998; 19:275-8. [PMID: 9775155 DOI: 10.1016/s0248-8663(97)89331-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION It is well known that polyneuropathy is associated with monoclonal IgM kappa. EXEGESIS We report the case of a 79-year-old man with lymphoma and motor neuron disease at cervical level simulating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Neurological deficit with inflammatory process evolved within 4 months. Electrophysiological findings showed increased and enlarged muscular potentials with neurogenic patterns. Nerve conduction velocities were normal, with neither multifocal neuropathy nor persistent conduction blocks. Besides mixed cryoglobulinemia type II, antisulfatide antibodies issued from monoclonal IgM were found. They were directed against myelin glycosphingolipids. No antiganglioside GM1 antibodies could be detected. This not only evoked ALS but also proximal motor axonopathy related with monoclonal IgM. CONCLUSIONS This case suggests that antisulfatide antibodies often present in sensitive demyelinating polyneuropathy could also be involved in lower motor neuron syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Baud
- Laboratoire de neurophysiologie, Hôpital de Nemours, France
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49
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Blaes F, Strittmatter M, Schwamborn J, Heide G, Hamann GF, Merkelbach S, Schimrigk K. Antineuronal antibody-associated paraneoplastic neuropathy in Hodgkin's disease. Eur J Neurol 1998; 5:109-112. [PMID: 10210821 DOI: 10.1046/j.1468-1331.1998.510109.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Paraneoplastic neurological syndromes in patients with Hodgkin's disease are rare findings. Subacute, paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration or autonomic dysfunctions were described before. In some of these cases, autoantibodies against central or peripheral nervous system structures were found in serum and CSF. We present a 30-year-old white male who developed a progredient, clinical and electrophysiological distal sensomotoric neuropathy. Six months after the beginning of the neurological disturbances, Hodgkin's disease (Stadium III BE) was diagnosed. Other reasons for neuropathy, such as direct impairment of the peripheral nervous system by tumor masses or drug-induced neuropathy, were excluded. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis showed a mild pleocytosis, elevated total protein (9.8 g/l) and identical oligoclonal bands in serum and CSF. Blood-CSF barrier damage was detected by Reiber formula. Indirect immunofluorescence and western blot analysis demonstrated an autoantibody against peripheral and central nervous system structures in serum and CSF. Although the autoantibody responded to a 38-40 kDa-protein in western blot and showed nuclear staining of myenteric plexus and Purkinje cell nuclei in the immunofluorescence test, this antibody was shown to be not identical to anti-Hu. An intrathecal synthesis of the antineuronal antibody was detected by antibody specificity index. Tumor therapy, plasmapheresis and treatment with intravenous immunoglobulins did not improve the neuropathy. According to our knowledge this is the first case of antineuronal antibody-associated sensomotoric neuropathy in Hodgkin's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Blaes
- Departments of Neurology, University of Homburg, Homburg, Germany
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Batchelor TT, Platten M, Palmer-Toy DE, Hunter GJ, Lev MH, Dalmau J, Hochberg FH. Chorea as a paraneoplastic complication of Hodgkin's disease. J Neurooncol 1998; 36:185-90. [PMID: 9525818 DOI: 10.1023/a:1005860103173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Neurologic complications of Hodgkin's disease (HD) include both metastatic and non-metastatic involvement of the nervous system. There are at least five paraneoplastic syndromes associated with HD but chorea has not been described. We report the first choreiform disorder as a paraneoplastic complication of HD and only the second case of paraneoplastic chorea in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- T T Batchelor
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston 02114, USA
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