A review of the neurological complications of breast cancer

Abstract

Conducting broad assessments of the main burden of breast cancer is the core factor for improving overdiagnosis and overtreatment of breast cancer patients as well as their survival rates. Breast cancer patients may experience neurological complications that cause devastating effects on them. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) and neuropathic pain are two of the most reported complications. Objective: This study aims to review the neurological complications of breast cancer and the ways to control and treat them. Comprehensive searches were carried out about the keywords of Breast Cancer, Neurological Complications, and Breast Cancer Consequences. These keywords were searched through the most well-known databases of MEDLINE, PUBMED, Cochrane Library, Best Evidence, CancerLit, HealthSTAR, and LegalTrac. In this regard, 83 articles were chosen to be included in this study from 2010 to 2021. The identification and treatment process of neurologic syndromes are not easy. The main neurologic syndromes which the breast cancer patients face are opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome (OMS), encephalitis, sensorimotor neuropathy, retinopathy, cerebellar degeneration, and stiff-person’s syndrome. CIPN and neuropathic pain are among the most prevalent side effects which are categorized as neurological complications and mainly seen 1 year after the management of breast cancer. Aiming to minimize the burden following the treatment of breast cancer, these complications should be diagnosed and treated accurately.

DPPX antibody-mediated autoimmune encephalitis：the first case with breast cancer and review of the literature

“…Many of these syndromes are mediated by antibodies targeting specific antigens of neurons [ 11 ]. Of note, immunosuppressive treatments can also impact the central nervous system by increasing susceptibility to opportunistic infections [ 12 ]. In the case discussed in this paper, the patient has a prior history of metastatic breast cancer and has developed secondary symptoms of DPPX antibody-mediated encephalitis and retinopathy following immunotherapy.…”

Exploring the human microbiome – A step forward for precision medicine in breast cancer

“…In the context of therapeutic advancements, the microbiota may play a crucial role in predicting individual breast cancer risk and prognosis, as well as the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and clinical efficacy of treatments 41,131 . Recent research has revealed that certain gut commensals, which are present in excess in breast cancer patients compared to healthy individuals, have a negative impact on breast cancer prognosis, are influenced by chemotherapy, and may also affect weight gain and neurological side effects of breast cancer therapies 132,133 . Clinical researchers are therefore interested in the potential of the gut microbiota as a biomarker for predicting the efficacy of cancer treatment.…”

“… 41 , 131 Recent research has revealed that certain gut commensals, which are present in excess in breast cancer patients compared to healthy individuals, have a negative impact on breast cancer prognosis, are influenced by chemotherapy, and may also affect weight gain and neurological side effects of breast cancer therapies. 132 , 133 Clinical researchers are therefore interested in the potential of the gut microbiota as a biomarker for predicting the efficacy of cancer treatment. Studies have shown that the gut microbiota can modulate cancer treatments' efficacy and adverse effects, and that cancer and anticancer therapies interact bidirectionally with the gut microbiota.…”

Breast Cancer and the Brain: A Comprehensive Review of Neurological Complications

“…While breast cancer primarily affects the breast tissue, it can have far-reaching consequences throughout the body, including the brain. The development of neurological complications in breast cancer patients can significantly impact their quality of life, treatment options, and prognosis [ 2 ]. Neurological complications encompass a wide range of conditions, from brain metastases to paraneoplastic syndromes and cognitive impairments resulting from cancer treatments [ 2 ].…”

“…The development of neurological complications in breast cancer patients can significantly impact their quality of life, treatment options, and prognosis [ 2 ]. Neurological complications encompass a wide range of conditions, from brain metastases to paraneoplastic syndromes and cognitive impairments resulting from cancer treatments [ 2 ]. Patients experiencing neurological complications may suffer from symptoms such as headaches, seizures, cognitive deficits, motor impairments, and psychological distress.…”