Incidence of Cisplatin-Induced Renal Impairment, Ototoxicity, and Peripheral Neuropathy and Impact of Chemotherapy on Health-Related Quality of Life Among Various Cancer Patients

Background

Cisplatin is a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent whose clinical utility is limited by dose-related toxicities. The present study aimed to assess the incidence and clinical impact of cisplatin-induced toxicities nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity, and peripheral neuropathy and to evaluate their effects on Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) and patient satisfaction among hospitalized cancer patients.

Materials and Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted over a ten-month period (August 2024-May 2025) at a tertiary care oncology center. Adult patients receiving cisplatin-based chemotherapy were enrolled. Clinical toxicities were documented, and patient-reported outcomes were assessed using validated instruments, including the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30), EORTC QLQ-CIPN20, and EORTC IN-PATSAT32. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed.

Results

Peripheral neuropathy was the most frequently observed toxicity, affecting over 20% of patients, with a significant post-treatment increase across all domains of the EORTC QLQ-CIPN20. Nephrotoxicity was identified in 25.6% of patients, comprising mild (16.1%), moderate (5.7%), and severe (3.8%) renal impairment. Ototoxicity was reported in 15.09% of patients and was characterized by Grade 2 high-frequency hearing loss. HRQoL assessment revealed marked impairment in physical, emotional, cognitive, and social functioning, with financial difficulties reported by 52.8% of participants. Despite these toxicities, patient satisfaction with inpatient oncology care remained high.

Conclusion

Cisplatin therapy is associated with clinically significant toxicities that adversely affect HRQoL. Routine monitoring, early detection, and individualised management of toxicities, along with the integration of patient-reported outcome measures, are crucial for enhancing therapeutic outcomes and patient-centred oncology care.