Taxane-induced neurotoxicity: pathophysiology and therapeutic perspectives.

: Taxane-derived drugs are antineoplastic agents used for the treatment of highly prevalent malignancies. Paclitaxel and docetaxel are the most commonly used taxanes; however, other drugs and formulations have been used, such as cabazitaxel and nab-paclitaxel. Taxane treatment is associated with neurotoxicity, a well-known and relevant side effect of great prevalence amongst patients undergoing chemotherapy. Painful peripheral neuropathy is the most dose-limiting side effect of taxanes, affecting up to 97% of paclitaxel-treated patients. Central neurotoxicity is an emerging side effect of taxanes, and it is characterized by cognitive impairment and encephalopathy. Besides impairing the adherence to chemotherapy, taxane-induced neurotoxicity (TIN) can adversely affect the patient's life quality on a long-term basis. Despite the clinical relevance, not many reviews have comprehensively addressed the therapeutic perspectives for treating TIN. The present article provides an up-to-date review on the pathophysiology of TIN and the novel potential therapies to prevent or treat this side effect.