Strategies for managing chemotherapy-induced sensory neuropathy

Chemotherapy-induced sensory neuropathy occurs in most patients undergoing treatment with oxaliplatin for colorectal cancer. Although the acute form of neurotoxicity is transient, the chronic form, which is correlated with the cumulative dose of oxaliplatin administered over time, may be long lasting in a subset of patients and may have a significant impact on function and quality of life. Because treatment options for established chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy are limited, recent efforts have focused on prevention. This review discusses acute and chronic neurotoxic effects of oxaliplatin, the most recent evidence for decreasing the probability of developing peripheral neuropathy, and the clinical management of existing neuropathy.