[Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy; impact on quality of life]

Peripheral neuropathy is a frequently occurring side-effect of chemotherapy as a cancer treatment. The incidence of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is increasing as a consequence of better treatment of cancer becoming available and increasing use of chemotherapy, and because CIPN occurs more frequently with use of new chemotherapeutics. The diagnosis 'CIPN' is made principally on clinical grounds, and it is characterized by predominantly sensory symptoms. The National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria (NCI-CTC) are commonly used to grade CIPN, but the reliability of these criteria is debated. If CIPN occurs, the only effective strategies are dose reduction or discontinuation of chemotherapy. CIPN impairs quality of life. It is important to evaluate the symptoms of CIPN, as well as the impact on daily living.