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Review
. 2021 Oct;42(10):4109-4121.
doi: 10.1007/s10072-021-05576-6. Epub 2021 Aug 26.

Chemotherapy and peripheral neuropathy

Tiffany Li  1 , David Mizrahi  2   3 , David Goldstein  2 , Matthew C Kiernan  1 , Susanna B Park  4
Affiliations
Review

Chemotherapy and peripheral neuropathy

Tiffany Li et al. Neurol Sci. 2021 Oct.

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity (CIPN) is a major dose-limiting side effect of many anti-cancer agents, including taxanes, platinums, vinca alkaloids, proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs, and antibody-drug conjugates. The resultant symptoms often persist post treatment completion and continue to impact on long-term function and quality of life for cancer survivors. At present, dose reduction remains the only strategy to prevent severe neuropathy, often leading clinicians to the difficult decision of balancing maximal treatment exposure and minimal long-lasting side effects. This review examines the clinical presentations of CIPN with each class of neurotoxic treatment, describing signs, symptoms, and long-term outcomes. We provide an update on the proposed mechanisms of nerve damage and review current data on clinical and genetic risk factors contributing to CIPN development. We also examine recent areas of research in the treatment and prevention of CIPN, with specific focus on current clinical trials and consensus recommendations for CIPN management.

Keywords: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy; Features; Mechanisms; Prevention; Risk factors; Treatment.

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