Transient hyperesthesia and radicular pain: An unrecognised complication of thoracic radiotherapy

Abstract

Radiotherapy may be associated with both permanent and transient neurological adverse effects. We report seven cases of previously undocumented type of transient hyperesthesia and radicular pain occurring after radiotherapy for thoracic malignancies and describe the potential mechanisms. This is different to Lhermitte's sign in its character, location, and duration of symptoms. Knowledge of such adverse effects will prevent inappropriate investigations and anxiety for patients.