Peripheral nerve function and symptom distress during biotherapy for malignant melanoma.

摘要: Studies of biotherapy-induced physiological changes are few, and systematic monitoring for neurotoxic effects lacking. The purpose this exploratory pilot study was to determine the change in peripheral nerve function symptom distress during treatment with biotherapy malignant melanoma. A convenience sample 11 participants melanoma receiving interferon-alpha had measures measured at baseline, four 12 weeks treatment. Data were analyzed using plots regression slopes over time sensation, gait/balance, vision, hearing, vibratory sense, muscle strength, deep tendon reflexes, blood pressure, distress. Declines vibration, strength found. Changes visual acuity, orthostatic pressure noted, while gait/balance remained stable. Additionally, neuropathy symptoms associated characterization such can increase our understanding nature high-dose aid clinicians better prepare patients anticipated subsequent lifestyle adjustments. These findings be used provide information a larger phenomenon regarding important outcomes measurement time-points therapy-induced decreasing cancer biologic agents.