Chronic chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: living with neuropathy during and after cancer treatments

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a prevalent and often debilitating side effect faced by many patients undergoing chemotherapy, significantly impacting their quality of life and functional status. Psychological impact in patients with CIPN remains widely understudied and can range from symptoms of sadness, fear, depression, and anxiety, substantially impacting quality of life and daily functioning in cancer survivors. CIPN is characterized by peripheral nerve damage due to neurotoxic effects of chemotherapeutic agents. However, the pathophysiology and exact mechanism is not fully understood. Patients experience symptoms ranging from numbness, tingling, pain, and motor dysfunction. Various clinical factors [e.g., the specific chemotherapeutic agents and dosing, patient characteristics such as body mass index (BMI), age, race, genetics and co-morbid conditions] have been associated with risk of developing CIPN. The prevalence of CIPN continues to increase; however, effective preventive and treatment strategies for CIPN remain limited. Current treatment strategies are limited to dose adjustments and symptomatic relief, highlighting the need to identify evidenced-based preventive strategies and well beneficial therapeutics. Further research in CIPN is essential for improving outcomes and quality of life in patients experiencing this debilitating condition. In this review, we examine the clinical presentation, incidence and prevalence, risk factors, diagnostic evaluation, and current preventive/treatment strategies with a focus on the impact of CIPN on quality of life, patient experience and functional status.

Keywords: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN); patient experience; prevention; quality of life; treatment.