Quality of life and induced chemotherapy neurotoxicity

The aim of the present study was to review Greek and international literature referred to the impact of the chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy on the quality of life of patients with cancer. Method and material: The method followed included bibliography research from both the review and the research literature which referred to the impact of the chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy to the quality of life to patients with cancer. Results: The results of studies indicate that the survival of patients with cancer as the only goal of the treatment is no longer sufficient. Although, the evaluation of the consequences of the chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy on the quality of life has not been the subject of many research studies, over the last decades quality of life has gained a significant position in the field of Oncology. Peripheral neuropathy affects the ability of patients to perform their daily activities thus influencing negatively their quality of life. Conclusions: It is demanding the adoption of a reliable and valid instrument to assess not only peripheral neuropathy, but also its’ consequences on the quality of life. Furthermore, the establishment of specialized neurological centers is a matter of great importance.

Keywords: Chemotherapy, Quality of Life, Peripheral Neuropathy