[Disordered higher functions in a smoker].
BACKGROUND
Paraneoplastic syndromes sometimes lead to the discovery of an intrathoracic tumour, notably small cell lung cancer (SCLC).


METHODS
We report the case of a patient presenting with a paraneoplastic syndrome characterised by disordered higher functions and convulsions, representing a paraneoplastic encephalo-myelitis (PEM). This PEM led to the diagnosis of SCLC. The diagnostic features and progress of the PEM are discussed.


CONCLUSIONS
Recognition of PEM allows the diagnosis and early treatment of the underlying cancer, strongly influencing the prognosis, particularly in SCLC.
Service des Maladies Respiratoires, Hôpital Général de Befelatanana, CHU Antananarivo, Madagascar.
J
J
Rakotomizao
F
F
Barlési
G
G
Lima
C
C
Doddoli
C
C
Gimenez
A
A
Palot
J-P
JP
Kleisbauer
D018288:Carcinoma, Small Cell / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010257:Paraneoplastic Syndromes / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D012907:Smoking / Q000503:physiopathology