Cervicobrachial neuralgia and cancer: what is the link?

The link between the cervico brachial neuralgia and cancer has been a topic of much discussion lately. Some experts believe that there is a strong correlation between the two conditions, while others are not so sure.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the connection between cervico brachial neuralgia .

What is cervico-brachial neuralgia?

La cervico brachial neuralgia is a pain of neurological origin, which begins in the neck (cervical spine) and describes a precise pain path in the arm and forearm, ending in one or more fingers of the hand.

The pain of cervico brachial neuralgia is caused by irritation or compression of the cervical nerve roots, specifically where they exit the spine.

The most frequently affected nerves are those that exit between the 4th and 5th cervical vertebra (C4-C5-C6), less frequently between the 3rd and 4th cervical vertebra (C3-C4). In some cases, both roots may be involved.

Cervical Spine Anatomy

La cervical spine is made up of seven vertebrae, which are connected by ligaments, muscles and discs. The vertebrae are responsible for protecting the spinal cord, while the discs cushion the bones and absorb shock.

Muscles and ligaments provide stability and allow the spine to move. The cervical spine is surrounded by a protective layer of soft tissue called the meninges. This layer is made up of three membranes: the dura mater, the arachnoid membrane and the Pia membrane.

Together, these layers protect the spinal cord from injury. The cervical spine is also supported by a number of small bones called vertebrae. These bones are connected by joints, which allow the spine to move. The vertebrae also protect the spinal cord from injury.

Symptoms of cervico-brachial neuralgia

The pain of cervico brachial neuralgia is usually felt on one side of the neck, shoulder, arm or hand. It can be a sharp, shooting pain or a dull, aching pain.

It may also be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected arm or hand.

The pain may worsen with certain neck movements or when the head is held in a certain position for prolonged periods. The pain of cervico brachial neuralgia is often more intense at night and can make it difficult to sleep.

What are the causes of cervico-brachial neuralgia?

La cervico brachial neuralgia can be caused by a number of different conditions, including:

• A cervical spondylosis : It is a degenerative condition that affects the bones, discs and joints of the cervical spine. It is often caused by wear and tear on the spine and can lead to the formation of bone spurs, which can compress nerves.

• Spinal stenosis: Spinal stenosis is a condition in which the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This narrowing can be caused by degenerative changes in the spine, such as osteoarthritis.

• Degenerative disc disease: Degenerative disc disease is a condition that can occur when the discs in the spine begin to deteriorate. The discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, and when they degenerate, they can lose their ability to absorb shock. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and other symptoms. In some cases, degenerative disc disease can also cause problems with nerve function.

• Herniated disc cervical: La cervical disc herniation occurs when the gelatinous center of a spinal disc protrudes through a tear in the outer layer. This can put pressure on nearby nerves and cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the arm or hand. In some cases, cervical disc herniation can also cause problems with balance and coordination.

• Wound : A neck injury, such as a car accident can cause cervico-brachial neuralgia.

• Cancer: The cancer can compress or irritate the cervical nerve roots, causing cervicobrachial neuralgia pain.

Cervicobrachial neuralgia and cancer: what is the link?

Neuralgia cervico-brachial is a rare but possible complication of cancer. The cancer can compress or irritate the cervical nerve roots, causing the pain of neuralgia cervico-brachial.

The most common cancers causing cervico brachial neuralgia are breast cancer, lung cancer and Hodgkin's lymphoma. However, any type of cancer can potentially cause this condition.

Early diagnosis and treatment of cancer is essential to prevent the development of cervico-brachial neuralgia. If you experience neck, shoulder, arm or hand pain, it is important to see your doctor for an evaluation.

Early detection and treatment of cancer is the best way to prevent the development of this condition.

When to worry

Although cancer can present differently from person to person, some general signs and symptoms can indicate the presence of the disease. It can be:

• Tiredness
• Weight loss
• Skin changes
• Sudden appearance of bruising
• Neck pain that doesn't go away with over-the-counter medications
• Headaches 
• Sharp, throbbing pain or dull, persistent pain
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected arm or hand
• And changes in bowel habits or urination.

Of course, it's important to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it's important to see a doctor if you're worried about your health.

However, if you experience any of these symptoms on a regular basis, it is worth seeing a doctor. Early detection is critical to successful cancer treatment, so don't hesitate to seek help if you're worried about your health.

Conclusion

Although neuralgia cervico-brachial is not a common condition, it is important to see a doctor if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above.

Cancer is a rare cause of neuralgia cervico-brachial, but it is important to rule out any serious underlying cause. If you have persistent pain, your doctor will likely order additional tests to determine the cause.

In most cases, neuralgia cervico-brachial can be effectively treated with a combination of physical therapy and medication. However, in rare cases, surgery may be needed to relieve pressure on the affected nerves.

References

1. https://www.medisite.fr/cancer-quel-est-le-lien-entre-douleurs-dans-le-cou-et-cancer.1020709.46.html
2. https://www.pourquoidocteur.fr/MaladiesPkoidoc/1160-Nevralgie-cervico-brachiale-sciatique-bras-arthrosique
3. https://www.lombafit.com/nevralgie-cervico-brachiale/