Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Breast Cancer Patients

Abstract

Peripheral neuropathy induced by chemotherapy is considered the most common neurological disorder associated with chemotherapy. Different sites are involved in the mechanism of chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy and considered multifactorial. 68% of cases develop CIPN during the first month following the start of chemotherapy, 60% of cases develop CIPN within 3 months after chemotherapy and only 30% after 6 months. CIPN is caused by chemotherapeutic agents which include taxanes, platinum analogs, and vinca alkaloids. The clinical presentation of CIPN includes multiple symptoms that may cause functioning impairment and may require reduction of the dose of chemotherapy. CIPN considered a common sequel of different agents of chemotherapy and may last from months to years after chemotherapy completion. CIPN can be diagnosed by a detailed history and clinical examination. Clinical examination of a patient with CIPN can be done by the use of nerve conduction studies. Antidepressant includes tricyclic antidepressants and serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors are common drugs used for CIPN. Patients may require reductions, substitutions, or stopping of chemotherapeutic agents according to the severity of symptoms.