Disease category: None
Immune Effector Cell-Associated Neurotoxicity Syndrome (ICANS) is a rare but serious condition that can occur following certain cancer treatments, particularly those that involve immune-based therapies. ICANS can cause a range of neurological symptoms, including confusion, seizures, and coma, and may be fatal in severe cases.
ICANS is thought to occur when immune cells called T cells, which are activated by cancer treatment, enter the brain and cause inflammation. This inflammation can damage the brain and lead to the symptoms of ICANS.
There are different grades of ICANS, ranging from mild to severe. Grade unspecified means that the severity of the syndrome is not specified or has not yet been determined.
The symptoms of ICANS can vary depending on the grade of the syndrome and the individual patient, but may include:
If you are undergoing cancer treatment and experience any of these symptoms, it is important to notify your healthcare provider immediately.
Diagnosing ICANS can be challenging because the symptoms can be similar to other neurological conditions. Doctors may use imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, to look for signs of inflammation in the brain.
Management of ICANS typically involves stopping or adjusting the cancer treatment that is causing the syndrome. In some cases, medications may be used to control symptoms such as seizures or inflammation. Supportive care, such as IV fluids and nutritional support, may also be necessary.
ICANS is a serious condition that can occur following cancer treatment. If you or a loved one is undergoing cancer treatment and experiences symptoms of ICANS, it is important to notify your healthcare provider immediately. With prompt diagnosis and management, the prognosis for ICANS can be good.
Immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) is a rare but serious complication of cancer treatment. It is caused by certain immunotherapy drugs that activate immune cells to attack cancer cells, but also cause inflammation in the brain and nervous system. ICANS can cau...
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