Serum proteins as predictors of the development of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy

Background. The development of polyneuropathy in the context of cytotoxic drug administration is a common neurological complication that can significantly impair patients’ quality of life and limit the use of chemotherapy. The difficulties in predicting the manifestations and severity of neurological complications are due to multiple factors, including individual patient characteristics, the type and dosage of the drug used, as well as the presence of comorbid conditions. In recent years, researchers have focused on identifying serum biomarkers that may aid in the early diagnosis and monitoring of Сhemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy. Understanding their role in the development of polyneuropathy may open new avenues for developing strategies for the prevention and treatment of this complication, which, in turn, could enhance treatment efficacy and improve patients’ quality of life. This review is dedicated to biomarkers and their clinical significance in the development of Сhemotherapy induced Peripheral Neuropathy.

Aim. To analyze and summarize the current understanding of serum biological markers of Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy based on literature data.

Materials and methods. The literature search was performed using the following databases: PubMed, Medline. Systematic reviews, publications of original studies and meta-analyses between 2000 and 2023 were included in the analysis.

Results. Over the past decades, new insights in to the role of biomarkers in the development of Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy have emerged, among which neurofilaments are more specific. The use of readily available and ultra-sensitive techniques for measuring biomarker concentrations will allow early prediction and prevention of this complication.

Conclusion. The analysis of literature data has shown the high relevance of the role of biomarkers in the damage of peripheral nervous system structures, which may in the near future affect the management tactics and in turn improve the quality of life of cancer patients.