Paraneoplastic Autonomic Dysfunction

Ramesh K. Khurana

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

The chapter focuses on paraneoplastic autonomic dysfunction (PAD), morvan's syndrome, neuromyotonia, and subacute sensory neuronopathy. Dysautonomia may be the only manifestation of PAD, or it may occur in combination with recognizable syndromes such as subacute sensory neuropathy. Excessive daytime sleepiness, narcolepsy-cataplexy, decreased CSF hypocretin, hyperthermia, hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction, gain in weight, and sexual dysfunction incriminate the diencephalic region. Peripheral, central, and autonomic nervous systems may be affected in Morvan's syndrome and neuromyotonia. Central involvement may manifest as hallucinations, fluctuating cognition, impairment of recent memory, complex nocturnal behavior, and insomnia. Pseudo-obstruction of bowels, a distinguishing feature of this illness, may precede or follow the diagnosis of tumor. Postural dizziness, syncope, and other symptoms may follow. Somatic neurologic findings are of variable severity and affect the peripheral or central nervous system. Urgent evaluation is necessary to prevent progressive neuronal loss, especially in CNS syndromes. A proper diagnosis can spare the patients unnecessary surgery in cases of pseudo-obstruction of the bowels. Treatment may be directed at the tumor, the antibodies, and the symptoms.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationPrimer on the Autonomic Nervous System
PublisherElsevier Inc.
Pages593-596
Number of pages4
ISBN (Print)9780123865250
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 1 2012
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Lambert-Eaton myasthenia syndrome
  • Limbic encephalitis
  • Paraneoplastic autonomic dysfunction
  • Subacute sensory neuronopathy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience

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