top of page

Treatment Induced Neuropathy

Treatment-induced neuropathy refers to nerve damage or dysfunction that occurs as a result of certain medical treatments or medications. Several treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, certain medications, and surgery, can cause nerve damage as a side effect. Treatment-induced neuropathy can manifest in various ways, depending on the type of treatment, dosage, duration, and individual factors.

​

Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy (CIPN): Chemotherapy drugs, particularly those used to treat cancers such as platinum-based drugs (cisplatin, carboplatin), taxanes (paclitaxel, docetaxel), vinca alkaloids (vincristine, vinblastine), and others, can damage peripheral nerves, leading to chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Symptoms may include:

  • Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy)

  • Burning or shooting pain

  • Sensitivity to cold or touch

  • Muscle weakness or difficulty with fine motor skills

  • Balance problems and difficulty walking

​​

Radiation-Induced Neuropathy: Radiation therapy, used to treat various cancers, can cause nerve damage if the radiation beams pass through or near nerves. Symptoms may include:

  • Numbness, tingling, or pain in the area treated with radiation

  • Weakness or paralysis in the affected area

  • Changes in sensation or muscle function

​​

Medication-Induced Neuropathy: Certain medications can cause nerve damage as a side effect. Examples include:

  • Antibiotics: Fluoroquinolones (ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin), metronidazole, and others can cause peripheral neuropathy.

  • Anticonvulsants: Medications used to treat seizures (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine) may cause peripheral neuropathy.

  • Antiretroviral drugs: Some medications used to treat HIV/AIDS can cause peripheral neuropathy.

  • Others: Statins, chemotherapy drugs, immunosuppressants, and certain pain medications may also cause neuropathy.

​​

Surgery-Induced Neuropathy: Surgical procedures, particularly those involving nerves, can result in nerve damage or injury. Symptoms may vary depending on the nerves affected and the extent of the damage.

​

Management of treatment-induced neuropathy focuses on alleviating symptoms, preventing further nerve damage, and improving quality of life. Treatment options may include:

  • Pain management medications (e.g., antidepressants, anticonvulsants, opioids)

  • Physical therapy and exercise

  • Occupational therapy

  • Topical treatments (e.g., lidocaine patches, capsaicin cream)

  • Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

  • Acupuncture

  • Lifestyle modifications (e.g., avoiding activities that worsen symptoms, maintaining proper nutrition, managing stress)

bottom of page