Polyvalent immunoglobulin therapy: preclinical evidence and potential for treating chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.

Abstract

Introduction: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a prevalent and often debilitating complication of cancer treatment, affecting over 68% of treated patients. This condition is characterized by sensory deficits, neuropathic pain, and reduced quality of life. While polyvalent human immunoglobulins (IVIg) are established treatments for various immune-mediated neurological disorders, including certain inflammatory and autoimmune peripheral neuropathies, their role in CIPN remains unexplored in clinical settings.

Areas covered: This review examines the neuroprotective properties of IVIg, focusing on approved indications, and explores recent preclinical evidence on the role of neuroinflammation in CIPN pathophysiology. We propose that IVIg could, based on preclinical findings, offer therapeutic benefits in managing CIPN without interfering with cancer treatments, provided that future clinical validation supports its efficacy and safety.

Expert opinion: Although there is currently no clinical experience with IVIg in CIPN patients, preclinical data suggest promising therapeutic prospects. Future research is essential to elucidate CIPN mechanisms further and to determine how IVIg might contribute as a novel therapeutic strategy, ultimately improving the quality of life for cancer patients.