The development of an EORTC quality of life questionnaire to assess chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: the QLQ-CIPN20

Eur J Cancer. 2005 May;41(8):1135-9. doi: 10.1016/j.ejca.2005.02.012. Epub 2005 Apr 14.

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common phenomenon, often resulting in serious limitations in daily functioning and compromised quality of life. Currently available toxicity grading systems typically use a combination of clinical and paraclinical parameters and relies on the judgment of clinicians and/or nurses. However, because many of the symptoms of CIPN are subjective in nature, it is only logical that an assessment of CIPN be based, at least in part, on patient self-report data. We report on the development of a patient self-report questionnaire, the CIPN20, intended to supplement the core quality of life questionnaire of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC). Following EORTC guidelines, relevant CIPN-related issues were identified from a literature survey and interviews with health professionals (n=15) and patients (n=112). The resulting 20-item questionnaire was pre-tested in three languages and four countries and is currently being examined in a large, international clinical trial. The EORTC CIPN20 should provide valuable information on CIPN-related symptoms and functional limitations of patients exposed to potentially neurotoxic chemotherapeutic and/or neuroprotective agents.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Quality of Life*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires / standards*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents