Acute, long-term or non-vincristine-induced peripheral neuropathy among non-Hodgkin lymphoma survivors: Symptoms, daily activities, functional status, and quality of life.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to explore the incidence and severity of vincristine-induced peripheral neuropathy (VIPN) in non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) survivors (primary aim) and its impact on daily life by comparing common cancer symptoms, functional status, and quality of life (QoL) among survivors with acute, long-term, and non-VIPN (secondary aim).

METHODS

This cross-sectional study examined 144 NHL survivors. Standardized questionnaires were used to assess common cancer symptoms, functional status, and QoL with the European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer - Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC-QLQ-C30). VIPN (Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy) status was classified using EORTC-QLQ-CIPN20. A self-designed interference scale was developed to determine the impact of the VIPN on daily activities. The Kruskal-Wallis test and Spearman rank correlation were used in this study.

RESULTS

Among the survivors of acute and long-term VIPN, the highest incidences and most severe symptoms were found for hand numbness and foot cramps. A significant moderate correlation was found between disturbances in daily activities and acute or long-term VIPN, including gait changes, going up or down the stairs, and imbalance-related falls. Acute and long-term VIPN survivors showed worse symptoms (fatigue, insomnia, and constipation) and lower QoL than non-VIPN survivors did. In acute VIPN, social function was significantly affected, whereas in long-term VIPN, emotional and cognitive functions were affected.

CONCLUSION

Numbness and cramps should be addressed in survivors of acute and long-term VIPN. Preventing falls is recommended for NHL survivors with VIPN, and psychological support is suggested for long-term VIPN survivors.