Guide To The Types Of Paraneoplastic Syndromes

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is the name given to any condition that causes the peripheral nerves to become diseased or damaged. Peripheral nerves are the nerves throughout the body that transmit messages to the spinal cord and brain. The network connects the central nervous system to the internal organs, skin, and muscles. Peripheral nerves are attached to the spinal cord.

There are a number of different peripheral neuropathies. As a paraneoplastic syndrome, the condition occurs when the immune system attacks the peripheral nerves. In most cases, this results in polyneuropathy. Unlike mononeuropathy, which occurs when only one nerve is affected, polyneuropathy refers to cases where multiple nerves are affected. Cancer patients often have autonomic problems because of long bed rest, chemotherapy, malnutrition, or high-dose analgesics. With that said, this condition should be considered whenever a cancer patient has symptoms of autonomic nervous system dysfunction.

Learn more about the other types of paraneoplastic syndromes now.