Occurrence of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in cancer patients at Belagavi city: An observational study

Abstract

Background: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a progressive condition, often irreversible. The chances of peripheral nervous system getting affected by the antineoplastic drugs are very high as compared to that of the central nervous system. Hence, this study is planned to assess the occurrence among cancer patients.Purpose: The objective of the present study was to screen patients undergoing cancer treatment for CIPN.Design: This was an observational study.Setting: The study was conducted at a tertiary care cancer hospital.Patients: Twenty-six individuals with CIPN, 30 years and above, were assessed using the modified total neuropathy score (mTNS) of >5.Measurements: Patients were assessed using mTNS.Results: Statistical analysis was done and it was found that 20% who received the drug cisplatin and 32% who received paclitaxel had CIPN. Forty-eight percent (48%) of the participants with CIPN received a combination of drugs.Conclusion: The drug paclitaxel was a major source for causing neuropathy. Neuropathy was seen when paclitaxel was given as the soul drug and also when given in combination with carboplatin.