Anticancer therapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in solid tumors: diagnosis, mechanisms, and treatment strategies

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Neurology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a frequent adverse event in anticancer therapy for solid tumors.
• PN incidence and severity depend on drug class, cumulative dose, and patient susceptibility.
• Current diagnostic criteria for PN are unclear due to a lack of specific biomarkers and imaging tests.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the current understanding of anticancer therapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (PN).
• To review diagnostic approaches, underlying mechanisms, and neuroprotective strategies for PN.
• To discuss potential intervention treatments for PN.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on anticancer therapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.
• Synthesis of information on PN diagnosis, mechanisms, and management.
• Discussion of current and potential future therapeutic interventions.

Main Results:

• Anticancer therapy frequently causes peripheral neuropathy (PN), with variable incidence and severity.
• Mechanisms of PN include direct neurotoxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, and impaired axonal transport.
• Effective treatments for PN are limited, with most focusing on symptom management rather than disease reversal.

Conclusions:

• Anticancer therapy-induced peripheral neuropathy presents significant challenges in cancer care.
• Further research is needed to clarify diagnostic criteria and develop effective treatments.
• Neuroprotective strategies and novel interventions are crucial for managing PN.