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Neurolymphomatosis or paraneoplastic syndrome?
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Hematologic Diseases
Question #15982
95 days ago
273

Neurolymphomatosis or paraneoplastic syndrome? - #15982

Massimo

Good morning, I will try to summarize my history for an opinion, even though I am aware of the limitations of distance. ​In the first week of August, I noticed a swollen, non-tender retroauricular lymph node (right ear). In September, I had an ultrasound which showed no suspicious features, and I was only told to repeat it if I noticed an increase in size. ​One night in mid-October, I woke up completely sweaty and shivering, and I realized I had a low-grade fever. ​This low-grade fever (max 37.7°C) lasted 2 days, but at night I started having strange tingling sensations in my legs that kept me from sleeping, and on the fourth day from the onset of the fever, I felt a searing burn in my right leg for several hours. From that moment until now, over a month later, my right leg is constantly weak, numb, sometimes with burning/pain extending to the sole of the foot, and my left arm is also weak and lacks strength (to a lesser extent than the leg). The night sweats continued intermittently for 2 weeks and have now disappeared. ​Over the course of this month, I underwent: ​2 further ultrasounds of the lymph node stations which showed reactive lymph nodes with no suspicious characteristics. ​CT scan of the neck, chest, and abdomen without contrast: Reported small reactive lymph node nodules. The mediastinum showed some subcentimetric, reactive-looking lymph node nodules. Some reactive lymph node nodules in the lomboaortic area and a greater number in the inguinal area, non-liquefied and non-confluent. ​Blood tests (all normal): Complete blood count with smear, LDH, Beta-2 microglobulin, iron and ferritin levels, ESR, CRP, protein electrophoresis, Bence Jones protein in the serum, complete urine test, ANA, and rheumatoid factor. ​Serology: Positive EBV IgG, negative EBV IgM; Anti-Herpes positive IgG only; Cytomegalovirus and Toxoplasmosis all negative. ​Electromyography (EMG): Performed 2 weeks after the onset of symptoms, negative. ​MRI without contrast of the brainstem and spinal cord: All normal except for "Verticalization of the physiological cervical lordosis," "Diffuse protrusion of the posterior disc margin of L4/L5 with impression on the dural sac," and "Slight posterior median and bilateral paramedian protrusion at L5/S1 impressing the dural cul-de-sac." ​I had two hematological consultations where, in light of the performed tests, I was told there is no trace of lymphoproliferative disease. ​The neurologist, after prescribing the EMG and MRI without contrast, advised me to see an orthopedist. ​Unfortunately, however, my arm and leg symptoms have been constant for over a month now. ​I have read in scientific articles that lymphoma can, in rare cases, present with symptoms very compatible with mine, by infiltrating the nerves or due to a paraneoplastic syndrome. ​I am very worried and hope for your kind feedback. ​Thank you in advance.

Age: 32
Chronic illnesses: Psoriasis
Lymphoma
Cancer
Neuropathy
300 INR (~3.53 USD)
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Doctors' responses

Dr. Arsha K Isac
I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.
95 days ago
5

Hello,

🛑Your findings do not fit lymphoma or paraneoplastic disease. A post-viral neuropathy or disc-related radiculopathy is far more likely. Your tests (blood work, ultrasounds, CT, MRI, EMG) all show reactive lymph nodes only and no signs of lymphoma.

Normal LDH, β2-microglobulin, CBC, and imaging make lymphoma, neurolymphomatosis, and paraneoplastic syndromes extremely unlikely.

Your symptoms began right after a brief fever, which strongly suggests a post-viral neuropathy or nerve root inflammation.

The L4/L5 and L5/S1 disc protrusions can explain the persistent symptoms in your right leg.

Arm symptoms may come from cervical muscle tension or radiculopathy.

🛑Recommended next steps: spine MRI with contrast, repeat EMG, and evaluation by a neurologist or spine specialist.

I trust this helps Feel free to talk Thank you

1026 answered questions
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Massimo
Client
89 days ago

Hi Doctor, thanks for your reply. Other symptoms have appeared over the last week (every day): loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain and slower digestion. Is this related to neuropathy? Thanks again.

Dr. Arsha K Isac
I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.
89 days ago
5

Hello,

Your new symptoms are compatible with: Post-viral autonomic nerve irritation Small-fiber/autonomic neuropathy

They do not suggest a malignant cause and they commonly occur together with the neurological issues you’ve already described.

Thank you

1026 answered questions
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In situations like yours, where the combination of symptoms such as persistent lymph node swelling, night sweats, neurological symptoms, and lingering concerns about lymphoma or paraneoplastic syndromes arises, thorough evaluation can indeed be essential. It’s understandable to have concerns about conditions such as neurolymphomatosis or paraneoplastic syndromes given the tests you’ve undergone. Although both are rare, lymphoma can occasionally present with neurological symptoms if it affects the nervous system directly (neurolymphomatosis) or through paraneoplastic processes. However, the normal hematological evaluations, imaging, and absence of overt signs of malignancy in your lymph nodes and other tests points against lymphoma at present. The negative neurological work-up, including the EMG and MRI, helps exclude significant nervous system structural pathology, though it doesn’t necessarily rule out all potential neurological origins.

Given the complex symptomatology, it may be valuable to consider further diagnostic avenues or expert consultations, possibly in neurologic or rheumatologic clinics. Regarding the cervical and lumbar MRI findings, while they might contribute to some of your symptoms through nerve impingement, they don’t fully align with the systemic symptoms like night sweats or arm and leg weakness. Your neurologist’s suggestion to consult with an orthopedist could address whether any musculoskeletal or spinal anomalies might explain part of your symptoms, especially concerning the leg and arm.

If possible, seek a comprehensive review from a neurologist specializing in neuroimmunology or neuro-oncology or a rheumatologist to explore the possibility of rare neurological involvement or an autoimmune process contributing to your symptoms. It’s encouraging that your main investigations have ruled out immediate red flags, but given your ongoing symptoms, continuation of follow-ups and perhaps seeing specialists with expertise in rare syndromes could bring further insight and peace of mind. Keep monitoring your symptoms and any new issues that might arise, and ensure you continue communicating clearly with your healthcare providers about your evolving condition.

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Massimo
Client
89 days ago

Hi Doctor, thanks for your reply. Other symptoms have appeared over the last week (every day): loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain and slower digestion. Is this related to neuropathy? Thanks again.

Dr. Nirav Jain
I am a qualified medical doctor with MBBS and DNB Diploma in Family Medicine from NBEMS, and my work has always been centered on treating patients in a complete, not just symptom based way. During my DNB training I rotated through almost every core department—Internal medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Surgery, Orthopedics, ENT, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Emergency medicine. That mix gave me the skill to manage acute illness, long term disease and preventive care together, something I find very important in family practice. In psychiatry I worked closely with patients who struggled with depression, anxiety, stress related problems, insomnia or substance use. I learned not just about medication but also about simple psychotherapy tools, psycho education and how to talk openly without judgement. I still use that exp in family medicine, specially when chronic disease patients also face mental health issues. My time in General surgery included assisting in minor and major procedures, managing wounds, abscess, sutures and emergencies. While I am not a surgeon, this gave me confidence to recognize surgical cases early, provide first line care and refer fast when needed, which makes a big difference in online or OPD settings. Now I work as a consultant in General medicine and Family practice, with focus on both in-person and online consultation. I treat conditions like fever, infections, gastrointestinal complaints, respiratory illness, and also manage diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, and lifestyle related chronic diseases. I see women for PCOS, contraception counseling, menstrual health, and children for common pediatric issues. I also dedicate time to preventive health, lifestyle counseling and diet-sleep-exercise advice, since these small changes affect long term wellness more than we often realize. My key skills include holistic diagnosis, evidence based treatment, chronic disease management, mental health support, preventive medicine and telemedicine communiation. At the center of all this is one thing—patients should feel heard, safe, and guided with care that is both professional and personal.
89 days ago
5

Hi, I understand why you’re worried, but based on all the tests you’ve already done, lymphoma, neurolymphomatosis, or paraneoplastic syndrome are extremely unlikely.

Your ultrasounds, CT scan, CBC, LDH, ESR/CRP, beta-2 microglobulin, and hematology reviews are all normal, these would usually show clear abnormalities if lymphoma were present.

Your symptoms fit much better with: -Post-viral neuropathy / small-fiber neuropathy (common after viral fevers, and EMG can be normal early) -Lumbar disc protrusions (L4–L5 and L5–S1) causing leg weakness, burning, foot symptoms -Possible nerve irritation + anxiety after a prolonged illness

What you should do next:

1. MRI of the spine WITH contrast (this is the right test to fully rule out nerve infiltration).

2. Repeat EMG after 6–8 weeks (early EMG can be normal).

3. Neurology follow-up for post-viral neuropathy or radiculopathy.

4. Blood tests: Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, TSH, HbA1c.

Your symptoms are real, but with all normal cancer-related tests, this is almost certainly a benign nerve issue, not lymphoma.

Feel free to reach out again.

Regards, Dr. Nirav Jain MBBS, DNB D.Fam.Med

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Massimo
Client
89 days ago

Hi Doctor, thanks for your reply. Other symptoms have appeared over the last week (every day): loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain and slower digestion. Is this related to neuropathy? Thanks again.

Dr. Bharat Joshi
I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.
95 days ago
5

Hello dear See as per clinical history the tests are not in support of either paraneoplastic syndrome or lymphoma or cancer However if you are having doubt get following tests done and share with neurologist/orthopedic surgeon Lems or anti-achr Anti-ma2 Pet scan Gaba-b Mri / ct scan Emg Muscle biopsy Please share the result with orthopedic surgeon or neurologist for better clarity Also, In addition please share clinical pic for confirmation Regards

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2 replies
Massimo
Client
89 days ago

Hi Doctor, thanks for your reply. Other symptoms have appeared over the last week (every day): loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain and slower digestion. Is this related to neuropathy? Thanks again.

Dr. Bharat Joshi
I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.
89 days ago
5

Hello dear Thanks for the kind response See directly they are not related with the nerve involvement but to see the chances of any advancement, you need to get in person consultation with neurologist. Kindly get complete clarification in person with concerned physician Regards

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Dr. Prasannajeet Singh Shekhawat
I am a 2023 batch passout and working as a general physician right now, based in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Still kinda new in the bigger picture maybe, but honestly—every single day in this line teaches you more than textbooks ever could. I’ve had the chance to work under some pretty respected doctors during and after my graduation, not just for the clinical part but also to see how they handle people, real people, in pain, in panic, and sometimes just confused about their own health. General medicine covers a lot, right? Like from the smallest complaints to those random, vague symptoms that no one really understands at first—those are kinda my zone now. I don’t really rush to label things, I try to spend time actually listening. Feels weird to say it but ya, I do take that part seriously. Some patients just need someone to hear the whole story instead of jumping to prescription pads after 30 seconds. Right now, my practice includes everything from managing common infections, blood pressure issues, sugar problems to more layered cases where symptoms overlap and you gotta just... piece things together. It's not glamorous all the time, but it's real. I’ve handled a bunch of seasonal disease waves too, like dengue surges and viral fevers that hit rural belts hard—Hanumangarh doesn’t get much spotlight but there’s plenty happening out here. Also, I do rely on basics—thorough history, solid clinical exam and yeah when needed, investigations. But not over-prescribing things just cz they’re there. One thing I picked up from the senior consultants I worked with—they used to say “don’t chase labs, chase the patient’s story”... stuck with me till now. Anyway, still learning every single day tbh. But I like that. Keeps me grounded and kind of obsessed with trying to get better.
92 days ago
5

Hello Massimo By going through your history and evaluation of your health status I must say that nothing to Worry about . It’s not lymphoma nor its paraneoplastic syndrome . Don’t always believe on Google. It’s better to be postive and go for better evaluation. I am suggesting you following treatment as follows- Neurobion forte - once a day after food for 30 days Amoxicillin 625 - once a day after food for 7 days Gabapin nt - once a day after food for 7 days

Nothing to Worry and be positive. You will get fine soon. And consult be further after 7 days

Thank you

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0 replies
Dr. Shayeque Reza
I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.
92 days ago
5

Your tests, imaging, clinical course, and physical findings all strongly exclude lymphoma. Your symptoms are far more consistent with a post-viral neuropathy + lumbar disc irritation.

You have been appropriately worked up. Nothing in your history points toward cancer.

You are dealing with a real problem, but not a dangerous one.

1504 answered questions
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2 replies
Massimo
Client
89 days ago

Hi Doctor, thanks for your reply. Other symptoms have appeared over the last week (every day): loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain and slower digestion. Is this related to neuropathy? Thanks again.

Dr. Shayeque Reza
I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.
89 days ago
5

You should visit nearest physician for physical examination.

1504 answered questions
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