Clinical follow-up of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in breast cancer

Clinical follow-up of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in breast cancer

Yu.V. Karakulova, A.A. Vychugzhanina 

Academician E.A. Vagner Perm State Medical University, Perm

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common neurological adverse effect associated with cancer chemotherapy (CCT). Taxane-induced peripheral neuropathy represents a specific subtype of this complication, occurring in 11–64% of patients receiving docetaxel, including those treated for hypertension. The pathogenesis of CIPN is multifactorial and involves direct axonal injury, the induction of oxidative stress and inflammation, DNA damage, disruption of microtubule dynamics, and alterations in ion channel activity. Clinically, CIPN most commonly manifests as paresthesia and dysesthesia (including numbness, tingling, and altered tactile sensation), as well as heightened sensitivity to cold stimuli. Neuropathic pain is frequently observed and can substantially diminish patient quality of life, commonly necessitating chemotherapy dose reduction, discontinuation, or cessation of therapy. CIPN typically demonstrates a cumulative dose-dependent progression of symptoms during ongoing chemotherapy, with a gradual regression of neurological deficits following the conclusion of treatment. Nonetheless, a subset of patients, particularly those exposed to taxanes, may experience persistent symptoms for years post-treatment completion. The clinical case presented herein describes long-term, painful docetaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy, characterized by exacerbation of symptoms even after the cessation of chemotherapy.

Keywords: doxetacel-induced peripheral neuropathy, neuropathic pain, сhemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy, breast cancer.

For citation: Karakulova Yu.V., Vychugzhanina A.A. Clinical follow-up of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in breast cancer. RMJ. 2025;4:31–35. DOI: 10.32364/2225-2282-2025-4-6