Chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathies (CIPNs): A biobehavioral approach

Abstract

Pain is a prevalent symptom in patients with cancer. Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathies (CIPNs), as a type of cancer related pain, are an increasingly common neuropathic pain syndrome. In this paper, we offer a biobehavioral approach to understanding the development and perhaps the maintenance of CIPNs. First, CIPNs are defined. This is followed by a description of the epidemiology, symptoms, and barriers associated with CIPNs. Following important research from the fields of pain, behavior and psychoneuroimmunology (PNI), we suggest that injury to peripheral nerves after chemotherapeutic treatments initiates immune to brain communication, which further modulates the biological mechanisms through which life experiences and behavior reinforce and likely perpetuate the experience of CIPN. © 2009 Springer New York.