Paraneoplastic Neurological Syndromes

Paraneoplastic neurological syndromes (PNS) are disorders caused by an immune response to cancer, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the nervous system. These syndromes can occur when tumors release substances that affect nerve cells, or when immune cells target proteins shared by both tumors and nerve cells. Symptoms can vary widely, including muscle weakness, coordination problems, or cognitive changes. PNS can sometimes precede a cancer diagnosis and is often associated with specific types of cancers, such as lung or breast cancer. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and controlling the underlying cancer.