Potential effect of intravenous immunoglobulin against paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration in progressive ovarian cancer

Abstract

We report the effect of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) against paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration (PCD) in a case of progressive ovarian cancer. Our patient developed PCD soon after postoperative chemotherapy and became bedridden. After undergoing IVIG, however, symptoms dramatically improved, and unexpectedly the remaining tumors were confirmed to have completely disappeared. When PCD is diagnosed, IVIG treatment should be attempted to reduce neuropathy regardless of its degree and the state of the cancer. It may also have further potential benefits that should be considered.

Keywords

• Immunoglobulin
• Ovarian neoplasms
• Paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration
• Paraneoplastic syndromes