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Peripheral Neuropathy
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Nervous System
Bartolomeo Eustachi, 16th c.
Bartolomeo Eustachi, 16th c.
Peripheral Neuropathy (PN) results from damage to the nerves of the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS). The PNS comprises all of the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord. PN most commonly affects the extremities–hands and feet.
PN causes different sensations in the affected areas. Generally speaking, peripheral neuropathy will cause varying degrees of numbness in the extremities, ranging from a tingling sensation to a lack of sensation.
There are over 100 types of Peripheral Neuropathies. They are categorized based on the type of nerve affected, the area of the body affected, and the symptoms experienced by the patient. It is estimated that up to 20% of cancer patients will develop some type of PN during treatment.
Causes
PN is not exclusive to lymphoma patients or cancer patients; there are myriad causes ranging from diabetes to thyroid disorders. In lymphoma patients, the damage is usually caused by either chemotherapy or radiation. Once the drug therapy is finished, the PN usually dissipates.
The following chemotherapy agents are well known causes of PN:
- vincristine
- vinblastine
- Vinorelbine
- Taxol
- Taxotere
- Platinol
- Eloxatin
- Paraplatin
- Synovir
- Thalomid
Common Symptoms
Some patients experience pain while others experience numbness. Uncontrollable twitching, muscle weakness, and constipation are also symptoms.
Also, tumors may swell near nerves, causing temporary damage. If this is the case, symptoms may persist until the tumors have shrunk from treatment.
Peripheral Neuropathy as a result of cancer treatments is often temporary and patients recover quickly. If you suffer from PN for an extended period of time and symptoms do not disappear, alert your doctor (Late Effects). Medications used to treat epilepsy and depression have been known to help ease symptoms. Your doctor will know the best options for you.
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Dive Deeper
Resources
- "Managing Peripheral Neuropathy" at Cancer.net
- The Neuropathy Association is dedicated to helping those with peripheral neuropathy
- NINDS article on Peripheral Neuropathy
- Neuropathy in AIDS
Related Articles
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For nearly 30 years, Cancer Treatment Centers of America has been dedicated to finding the right combination of personalized cancer treatments for their patients. Call (877) 399-6937 or click here to learn more about treatment options.
Support Groups
For individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
Find a Treatment Facility Near You
Click on a state below to find Lymphoma treatment options that could be right for you.
Select a State Below
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
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