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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Peripheral Neuropathy & Gemzar
This forum is for questions and support regarding neurology issues such as: Alzheimer's Disease, ALS, Autism, Brain Cancer, Cerebral Palsy, Chronic Pain, Epilepsy, Fibromyalgia, Headaches, MS, Neuralgia, Neuropathy, Parkinson's Disease, RSD, Sleep Disorders, Stroke, Traumatic Brain Injury.
Peripheral Neuropathy & Gemzar
by Jef-Stone, Feb 15, 1998 12:00AM
Re: Peripheral Neuropathy & Gemzar
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Posted by CCF MD on February 19, 1998 at 13:42:24:
In Reply to: Peripheral Neuropathy & Gemzar posted by Jeff Stone on February 15, 1998 at 22:46:09:
: My father was diagnosed last spring with pancreatic cancer. After receiving
a shunt to reduce fluid build-up in his brain (the cancer was initially
detected as a brain tumor which was removed and followed by radiation
treatment) he has been given weekly doses of gemcitibine (gemcytibine?).
In addition we are giving him bovine tracheal cartiledge and PSK. He is not
getting any platinum. His problem is that he has poor control of his legs
making walking difficult. His steps are small and sometimes poorly balanced.
He feels that his legs simply aren't responding to his mental commands.
Futhermore, his walking seems to be worse for the days just after his
weekly dose of gemcitibine. Is this a condition that others are experiencing?
Incidently, the presence of cancer in his pancreas has decreased since the
treatments began.
Thank you.
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I'm not sure how much help I can be. The medication you list - gemzar is an antitumor medication
that I have not had neurologic experience with. The PDR lists mild paresthesias being present but nothing like
the kind of problem that you are experienceing. Certainly you should discuss your concerns with his neurologist.
If he had to be shunted then a question of his shunt function arises and should be evaluated since
it can cause problems like you list. The other question would be whether disease has gone to his spinal cord.
If the problems are secondary to a peripheral neuropathy then this should be seen on physical examination and
can be diagnosed by EMG. I would recommend discussing these things with his doctor and if you wish to have a referral to CCF you can call
216 444 5559 to schedule - good luck.
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options
of your specific medical condition.
