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Updated: Jul 7, 2026
07:42
Nerve Excitability Assessment in Chemotherapy-induced Neurotoxicity
Published on: April 26, 2012
[Neuropathy induced by antineoplastic drugs]
Junichi Kusunoki1, Toyokazu Saito
1Department of Neurology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, 1-1-1 Kitasato, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 228 8555, Japan.
Brain and Nerve = Shinkei Kenkyu No Shinpo
|March 1, 2008
Summary
Chemotherapy for carcinoma prolongs patient life but can cause neurotoxicity. Cisplatin chemotherapy, in particular, can lead to irreversible nerve damage, requiring careful administration.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Advances in carcinoma treatment have extended patient survival.
- Chemotherapy is a cornerstone of cancer treatment.
- Neurotoxicity is a recognized adverse effect of various chemotherapeutic agents.
Purpose:
- To highlight the risk of neurotoxicity associated with chemotherapy.
- To emphasize the specific risk of cisplatin-induced neuropathy.
- To advocate for cautious use of cisplatin in cancer therapy.
Summary:
- Several anticancer drugs, including cisplatin (CDDP), vincristine (VCR), and paclitaxel (PTX), are known to cause polyneuropathy.
- Cisplatin-induced neuropathy is particularly concerning due to its potential for irreversible nerve damage.
- The prolonged survival of carcinoma patients necessitates careful management of treatment side effects like neurotoxicity.
Impact:
- Increased awareness among clinicians regarding chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity.
- Promotes judicious use of cisplatin to mitigate long-term neurological deficits.
- Contributes to improving the quality of life for cancer survivors by addressing debilitating side effects.
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