Neurological Complications of Cancer

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What is Neurological Complications of Cancer?

Neurological complications of cancer refer to issues affecting the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves, that arise either due to the cancer itself or its treatment (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation). These complications can significantly affect a person's quality of life and require timely diagnosis and treatment.

How to diagnose Neurological Complications of Cancer? When to consult a doctor?

Diagnosing neurological complications requires a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests

You should consult a doctor if:

  • Persistent or Severe Headaches: Particularly if they are new or worsening.
  • Sudden Onset of Seizures: Even if you have no history of epilepsy.
  • Unexplained Weakness or Numbness: Especially if it is localized to one side of the body or affects your ability to walk or use your hands.
  • Memory Loss, Confusion, or Cognitive Changes: These can be early signs of brain involvement.
  • Vision or Speech Problems: Sudden or progressive changes in vision or speech need immediate attention.
  • Severe Dizziness or Loss of Balance: This can be a sign of brain or spinal cord damage.
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Causes
  • Direct Tumor Involvement
  • Paraneoplastic Syndromes
  • Cancer Treatments
  • Infections
  • Blood Clots (Thromboembolism)
Symptoms
  • Headaches
  • Seizures
  • Weakness or Paralysis
  • Numbness or Tingling
  • Cognitive Changes
  • Vision or Speech Difficulties
  • Dizziness or Balance Issues
Frequently Asked Questions

Treatment depends on the specific complication but may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, steroids to reduce inflammation, and medications to manage symptoms like seizures or pain.

While not all complications can be prevented, early detection and prompt treatment of cancer can reduce the risk of neurological involvement. In some cases, prophylactic treatment like whole-brain radiation may be considered for certain types of cancer that are prone to brain metastasis.

Cancer can compress the spinal cord or nerves, either by direct growth or by metastasis to the spine. This can cause pain, weakness, loss of sensation, and in severe cases, paralysis.