Multifaced Approach of Assessing Upper Extremity Proprioception in Breast Cancer Patients with Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy

Summary

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common side effect of chemotherapy, often leading to sensory and motor impairments that significantly affect patients’ quality of life. It is particularly prevalent in treatments involving platinum- and taxane-based agents. While quantitative sensory testing (QST) is the current standard for assessing somatosensory function, it provides only limited insight into proprioceptive deficits, as it primarily focuses on vibration detection.This project aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of how chemotherapy affects proprioceptive and somatosensory function in breast cancer patients. In a cross-sectional design, we will compare three groups: patients who have undergone chemotherapy and surgery, patients who underwent surgery only, and age- and sex-matched healthy controls. By contrasting these groups, we seek to isolate the effects of chemotherapy on sensory and proprioceptive function, ultimately contributing to improved assessment and management of CIPN. 

Theme(s): sensory dysfunctions, oncolocy, upper limb, assessment