Various clinical features of patients with anti-Hu associated paraneoplastic neurological syndromes: An observational study

To describe and analyze the clinical features and prognosis of patients with anti-Hu associated paraneoplastic neurological syndromes (PNS). The symptoms, MRI findings, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) changes, electroencephalogram (EEG) characteristics and prognoses of 9 well-diagnosed anti-Hu associated PNS patients were analyzed. The study enrolled 6 female and 3 male patients. Three patients presented with vertigo and 6 patients exhibited a depressed mood, numbness of the lower limbs, generalized pains, seizures, mental disturbances, and a temporary unilateral hand tremor on initial presentation. Three patients presented with MRI abnormalities localized in the mesial temporal lobe and the thalamus. Abnormal interictal EEG readings were observed in all 5 patients who underwent EEG study. Four patients were found lung cancer (3 during hospitalization, 1 during follow-up). Seven patients were treated with immunotherapy and improved in symptoms. Three patients died during follow-up (2 with lung cancer). The clinical manifestation of anti-Hu associated PNS is diverse and multifocal. EEG may be more sensitive than MRI for early diagnosis of PNS. Long-term follow-up for patients with CT-negative anti-Hu associated PNS is necessary.