| Learning Objective #1: Describe the pattern of peripheral nerve changes that occur in individuals undergoing cancer treatment with biotherapy or chemotherapy | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Implement appropriate assessment techniques for monitoring of peripheral neuropathy throughout cancer treatment |
Objective: The purpose of this prospective, exploratory pilot study was to determine the pattern of symptoms indicative of peripheral neuropathy resulting from cancer treatment with neurotoxic chemotherapy or biotherapy.
Design: A prospective, exploratory design was used.
Population, Sample, Setting, Years: A convenience sample of 16 (8 men, 8 women X age 59, range 28-79) subjects with ovarian, lung cancer or malignant melanoma receiving chemotherapy (carboplatin/taxol) or biotherapy (interferon-alpha) were recruited from ambulatory cancer treatment centers from January 2000-January 2001.
Variables Studied Together: Independent variables: age, gender and cumulative drug dose. Outcome variables: sensation, gait/ balance, vision, hearing, vibratory sense, deep tendon reflexes, and blood pressure.
Methods: Subjects were approached for study participation prior to their first treatment. Peripheral nerve function measures were taken at baseline, 4 and 12 weeks of treatment. Data were analyzed using plots and graphs to determine change over time in peripheral nerve function.
Findings: Peripheral neuropathy symptoms effectively doubled over 12 weeks. Declines in hearing (5%), cutaneous sensation (11%), vibratory sensation (9%), deep tendon reflexes (21%), muscle strength (12%), and visual acuity (32%) were experienced. Alterations in orthostatic blood pressure were experienced from baseline to 4 weeks, while gait/balance remained stable.
Conclusions: Declines in peripheral nerve measures of hearing, vision, sensation, vibration, deep tendon reflexes and muscle strength occurred with cumulative drug dosage. No change in gait and balance was detected. The most severe orthostatic changes in blood pressure occurred during the first 4 weeks of treatment.
Implications: The characterization of peripheral nerve changes can assist in understanding the symptom trajectory of drug-induced neuropathy and aid in preparing patients for lifestyle adjustments and functional limitations. Study findings are essential to foster the development of interventions aimed at preserving functional status and decreasing symptom distress in patients receiving cancer treatment with neurotoxic agents.
Back to Cancer Care
Back to 14th International Nursing Research Congress
Sigma Theta Tau International
10-12 July 2003