Abstract

Background: Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN) is a side effect common to many drugs in cancer treatment. CIPN symptoms are mainly sensory, as paresthesia and pain, especially in body extremities. It can affect the patient’s life, requiring a dose reduction or interruption of therapy, which can impact patient’s survival.

Methods: Twenty-one hematology outpatients who were treated by neurotoxic potential drugs were selected. The Douleur neuropathique 4 questionnaire was applied, a patient form was made for data collection, and the data obtained was analyzed.

Main Results: The prevalence of CIPN was 47,62%. Five patients (23,81%) did not had signs of neurotoxicity, four (19,05%) patients were classified as Grade 1, seven (33,33% ) as Grade 2, and four (19,05%) as Grade 3, and one (4,76%) patient as Grade 4. Patients who had symptoms of CIPN had already received an average of 55,42% of the scheduled treatment. Three patients (14,29%) had to reduce the dose or change the drugs, and one patient (4,76%) had to discontinue it.

Conclusion: This study supports the hypothesis that CIPN is an important side effect in cancer treatments. Being a cause of reducing the dose or temporarily suspending it, which can affect the success of the treatment and patient’s survival.

Keywords: Peripheral nervous system diseases; Antineoplastic agents; Hematology