Abstract

Exploring Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN) in Cancer Patients at a Tertiary-Care Hospital: Incidence, Symptoms and Risk Factors

Background: Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN) is a common adverse effect experienced by cancer patients receiving neurotoxic chemotherapy. The present study aimed to explore the incidence, symptoms, and risk factors associated with CIPN in cancer patients upon the completion of anticancer therapy. Study design: The European Organization of Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-CIPN20), implemented explicitly for cancer patients, was used to assess CIPN symptoms and severity. This survey evaluates CIPN symptoms related to three domains: sensory, motor, and autonomic functions. Results: A total of 357 patients’ records were included with a median age of 53.0 years (range 15-90). The most reported symptoms among respondents were tingling and numbness in the upper and/or lower extremities, which ranged from 57.1% to 65.5%. Shooting/burning pain in hands and feet was reported in 36.7% and 40.1%, respectively. Both motor and autonomic domains show significantly higher overall scores in females than males. In addition to the female gender, significantly worse sum scores of all domains were also observed in elderly patients, and in patients with low education levels, allergy history, and co-morbidities. Patients with metastatic cancer undergoing chemotherapy treatment have experienced a significantly increased severity of CIPN symptoms. Although many participants experience CIPN, over 70% of patients did not receive any pharmacological treatment for their symptoms or complaints. Conclusion: The study showed that many cancer patients had varying degrees of CIPN and were not optimally treated. Worse symptoms were observed in females, elderly patients, and metastatic cancer receiving chemotherapy

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