Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity (CIPN): an update

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Oncology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is susceptible to drug toxicity due to limited protection.
• Drug-induced neurotoxicity can impact nerve fibers or neuronal bodies, particularly dorsal root ganglia.
• Antineoplastic agents are a major cause of neurotoxicity, often presenting as dose-limiting side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the features of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity (CIPN).
• To focus on neurotoxicity caused by platinum derivatives, antitubulins, thalidomide, and bortezomib.
• To highlight emerging antineoplastic agents like epothilones and proteasome inhibitors.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of drug-induced peripheral neurotoxicity.
• Analysis of clinical data on chemotherapy side effects.
• Focus on specific classes of antineoplastic agents.

Main Results:

• Antineoplastic agents frequently cause dose-limiting peripheral neurotoxicity.
• CIPN can severely impact cancer patients' quality of life and cause chronic discomfort.
• Platinum derivatives, antitubulins, thalidomide, and bortezomib are associated with severe PNS effects.

Conclusions:

• Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neurotoxicity is a critical clinical challenge.
• Understanding CIPN is essential for managing cancer patient care.
• Newer agents like epothilones and proteasome inhibitors require further investigation for their neurotoxic potential.