Prospective Observational Study on Neurotoxicity Induced by Paclitaxel-Based Chemotherapy Regimens and Its Impact on Quality of Life in Patients With Solid Tumors

Context : Paclitaxel is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent for treating various solid tumors. However, its use is limited by Paclitaxel-induced neurotoxicity (PIN), which adversely affects patients’ quality of life (QoL). Aims : To evaluate incidence, severity, and impact of Neurotoxicity induced by Paclitaxel based chemotherapy regimens and its effect on the quality of life in patients with solid tumor [Head& Neck, Ovarian, Stomach, Endometrial, Pelvic, Breast cancers etc.] Settings and Design: SVIMS -SPMC(W) TIRUPATI Hospital setting Prospective Observational study design. Methods and Material : ✓ Patient documentation form ✓ EORTC Grading Scale (Quality of life tool) ✓ CTCAE Grading Scale (Neurotoxicity grading tool) ✓ Informed consent form Statistical analysis used: Statistical analysis was done by performing the Chi-square test using SPSS software. Results : Among 60 participants, females comprised 73.3% . Breast and ovarian cancers were the most prevalent diagnoses. Sensory neurotoxicity occurred in 44.5% of patients, with 6.6% experiencing severe symptoms. Higher grades of neurotoxicity significantly correlated with lower physical functioning scores (p = 0.0232). However, cognitive and social domains of QoL were not significantly affected. Conclusions : Our study shows neurotoxicity severity varies with paclitaxel mono- and combination therapy. Sensory symptoms more significantly reduce quality of life. Patients with pronounced sensory toxicity may require alternative regimens, warranting further investigation. Regular monitoring and early intervention can reduce severity and improve treatment outcomes in patients receiving Paclitaxel-based regimens.