Publication:

A prospective observational study to assess peripheral neuropathy in patients receiving weekly paclitaxel chemotherapy

Background Peripheral neuropathies are disorders of peripheral nerve cells and fibres. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common side effect of anticancer treatment, and it can affect the patient's long-term survival. The prevalence of CIPN is around 38%. Peripheral neurotoxicity (PN) is a side effect of paclitaxel that can lead to treatment discontinuation. The intensity and severity of neuropathy is more with patients receiving weekly paclitaxel chemotherapy.

Methods 60 patients of CA breast receiving weekly paclitaxel monotherapy who fulfilled inclusion and exclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. Clinical examination and grading of neuropathy was done according to NCI-CTCAE version 4.0. All patient had undergone nerve-conduction studies at baseline and 3 months after baseline.

Results 50% of patients, developed signs symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, out of which tingling sensation was the most common symptom (40%). The incidence of grade 1 peripheral neuropathy at 3 and 6 months were 35%, and 31.66%, while grade 2 neuropathy was noted in 18.33%, and 14.75% of patients, respectively. There was a significant difference in the SNAP value between baseline and 3 months for right ulnar nerve, right and left sural nerve and CMAP for right median nerve, right ulnar nerve, right and left tibial nerves which suggests development of neuropathy during 3 months of paclitaxel chemotherapy.

Conclusions This study provides information on the incidence and severity of peripheral neuropathy in patients receiving weekly paclitaxel chemotherapy, which can help physician in further management.