Oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy in cancer treatment: Mechanisms, risk factors, and management strategies

Oxaliplatin (OXI) is a platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent commonly used in the systemic treatment of colorectal, gastric, pancreatic, and esophageal cancers. Like other cytotoxic agents, OXI is associated with various adverse effects; however, OXI-induced peripheral neuropathy (OIPN) represents a particularly challenging clinical problem for both oncologic patients and their clinicians. The severity of neuropathic symptoms may necessitate dose reduction or premature discontinuation of therapy, which can ultimately shorten recurrence-free survival. This paper discusses the symptoms, mechanisms of onset, risk factors, preventive strategies, treatment options, and grading scales associated with OIPN. Both the prevention and treatment of OIPN require further innovative and effective research. It is hoped that the outcomes of ongoing trials will address both chronic and acute OIPN in the near future, as this condition remains a persistent clinical concern for patients with gastrointestinal cancers.