Paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration
Overview
Disorders of the cerebellum associated with tumors. The cerebellum is the part of the brain that controls coordination. It is believed that the body's immune system's attempt to destroy the tumor results in damage to the cerebellum. The main tumors associated with this condition include lung and breast cancer, Hodgkin's lymphoma and reproductive organ tumors
Symptoms
* Autonomic neuropathy * Sensory neuropathy * Motor neuropathy * Cerebellar ataxia * Unsteadiness * Nystagmus * Encephalopathy * Diplopia * Impaired coordination * Dysarthria
Causes
It is believed to be due to an autoimmune reaction targeted against components of the central nervous system (specifically Purkinje cells and large brain stem nuclei). It is thought to be caused by an anti-neuronal Antibody known as anti-Yo. It typically presents as a subacute progressive cerebellar ataxia, both truncal and appendicular.
Diagnosis
* Colorectal Cancer Tests * Fecal Occult Bleeding Tests