06 Jun Risk Factors of Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Identified

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

Dr. Dawn Hershman

Dawn L. Hershman, MD MS
Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology
Leader, Breast Cancer Program
Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center
Columbia University
NY NY

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?

Dr. Hershman: Chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy is a common side effect of anti cancer therapy and there are currently no ways to prevent it. We used a large clinical trials database, SWOG, and linked it to Medicare claims for patients over the age of 65. We found that age and type of taxane were associated with the development of CIPN. We also found a significant increase when a taxane was given along with a platinum agent. We found a doubling of risk among patients with a prior history of diabetes. No other chronic condition was associated with an increased risk of CIPN. We found a suggestion of a decreased risk among patients with a prior history of auto-immune disease.

MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?

Dr. Hershman: We should focus preventive strategies on the groups with the highest risk. In addition, further study is warranted to understand the hypothesis generating finding with regard to the immune system. We don’t know if it is the disease or the treatment of the disease which may be protective. However this may give clues to understand mechanism and strategies for prevention.

MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study?

Dr. Hershman: To better understand the role of the immune system in the development of Chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy.

MedicalResearch.com: Thank you for your contribution to the MedicalResearch.com community.

Citation: ASCO Abstract June 5 2016
Dr. Dawn L. Hershman
Best of ASCO: Patient and Survivor Care
Comorbidities and risk of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy among participants in SWOG clinical trials (Abstract 10001)

Note: Content is Not intended as medical advice. Please consult your health care provider regarding your specific medical condition and questions.

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Last Updated on June 6, 2016 by Marie Benz MD FAAD