Paraneoplastic Syndromes Associated with Gynecologic Neoplasms: Experience from a Tertiary Care Center in South India

Abstract

Paraneoplastic syndromes associated with gynecologic neoplasms are rare and can involve various organ systems including the central nervous system, hematopoietic system, musculoskeletal, dermal and endocrine systems. They can result from cancer-associated immune reactions or the production of ectopic substances by the tumor tissue. This study retrospectively reviews the clinical presentations, management and outcome of patients who presented with paraneoplastic syndromes associated with gynecologic malignancies. Retrospective data were collected from medical records of patients who exhibited paraneoplastic symptoms associated with gynecologic neoplasms and were managed by department of gynecologic oncology at a tertiary care hospital in South India between 2014 and 2021. Medical case records of all eligible patients were reviewed, identifying eight women with gynecological neoplasms who presented with associated paraneoplastic symptoms. Among them, two cases pesented with paraneoplastic neurologic syndromes, four cases with paraneoplastic dermatologic syndromes, including three cases of dermatomyositis and one case with multicentric reticulohistiocytosis, and two cases with hypercalcemia. Paraneoplastic syndromes are rare manifestations that can precede or develop following the diagnosis of a malignancy. They require integrated management by a multidisciplinary team including physicians and oncologists. Early recognition of these symptoms and prompt evaluation have the potential to improve the prognosis and quality of life, at least in a small fraction of patients.