A paraneoplastic syndrome marked by degeneration of neurons in the medial temporal lobe. Clinical features include behavioral changes, HALLUCINATIONS, loss of short term memory, anosmia, AGEUSIA, and DEMENTIA. Circulating anti-neuronal antibodies (anti-Hu; also called ANNA 1) and small cell lung carcinomas are frequently associated with this condition. (From Pathologe 1997 Sep;18(5):406-10; J Int Neuropsychol Soc 1996 Sep;2(5):460-6; Brain 1997 Jun;120(Pt 6):923-8)