What are the Symptoms of Paraneoplastic Syndrome?
October 3, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Paraneoplastic syndromes are rare disorders that occur in some individuals with cancer. They are caused by an abnormal immune response to cancer cells, often involving the production of antibodies or other immune system substances. Paraneoplastic syndromes can affect various organs or systems in the body. Symptoms can vary widely based on the affected area and the type of syndrome, but some common symptoms may include:
- Neurological Symptoms:
- Paraneoplastic syndromes can affect the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as difficulty in walking or coordinating movements, muscle weakness, loss of muscle tone, tremors, seizures, dizziness, loss of balance, or difficulty speaking or swallowing.
- Cognitive and Behavioral Changes:
- Confusion, memory problems, personality changes, agitation, depression, anxiety, or hallucinations.
- Neuropathy:
- Peripheral neuropathy causing numbness, tingling, weakness, or pain in the extremities.
- Encephalopathy:
- Altered mental function, impaired memory, cognitive decline, or changes in consciousness.
- Dermatological Symptoms:
- Skin rashes, blisters, or changes in the nails.
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, difficulty swallowing, or abdominal pain.
- Endocrine Dysfunction:
- Hormonal imbalances leading to symptoms such as abnormal thirst or hunger, changes in menstrual periods, or excessive sweating.
- Blood Clotting Disorders:
- Increased risk of blood clots, which may present as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), or stroke.
- Anemia or Low Platelet Count:
- Fatigue, weakness, pale skin, or easy bruising and bleeding due to abnormal blood cell counts.
- Joint and Muscle Pain:
- Aches, pains, or inflammation in the joints and muscles.
- Fever and Night Sweats:
- Unexplained fever and excessive sweating, especially at night.
- Respiratory Symptoms:
- Shortness of breath, cough, or other respiratory issues.
It’s important to note that paraneoplastic syndromes are complex and can mimic other medical conditions, making diagnosis challenging. If you suspect you may have a paraneoplastic syndrome, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation, diagnosis, and appropriate management, often involving a multidisciplinary approach with neurologists, oncologists, and other specialists.