Effects of Oxaliplatin-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy on Hand Function, Grip Strength and Quality of Life in Colorectal Cancer Patients

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy on hand function, grip strength, and quality of life in colorectal cancer patients. Assessing the motor symptoms of CIPN and sharing the results in clinical settings will help guide evidence-based practices and interventions.

Oxaliplatin is a chemotherapy drug frequently used in the treatment of colorectal cancers, the third most common type of cancer. However, oxaliplatin is associated with long-term neurotoxicity, the most common dose-limiting side effect. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common adverse effect of platinum-based chemotherapy agents, such as oxaliplatin. CIPN limits patients' ability to tolerate treatment and adversely affects long-term quality of life and physical functionality. In individuals undergoing colorectal cancer treatment, the prevalence of CIPN has been reported as 58% at 6 months, 45% at 12 months, 32% at 24 months, and 24% at 36 months post-treatment. Additionally, oxaliplatin exhibits a "coasting phenomenon," in which CIPN symptoms continue to worsen for approximately 3 months after treatment. Although the incidence and sensory symptoms of oxaliplatin-induced CIPN during chemotherapy have been well documented, the chronic-phase motor symptom burden of oxaliplatin-induced CIPN has not been reported. Studies investigating the motor aspects of CIPN are insufficient, and further research is needed to determine its prevalence, progression, and impact on functional outcomes.