Onkológia 1/2018

Peripheral neuropathy in patients with multiple myeloma

Peripheral neuropathy is damage of the peripheral nervous system. In patients with multiple myeloma and other forms of monoclonal gammopathy, peripheral nerve damage occurs in its treatment, as well as one of the clinical symptoms of multiple myeloma. The evaluation of the neurological status of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma and MGUS patients is therefore important for the consideration of preexisting neuropathy. Simple questionnaires and neurological examination are sufficient to reveal peripheral neuropathy. Therapy with minimal side effects on the peripheral nervous system will allow continuous treatment of patients with preexisting peripheral neuropathy without the reduction or premature termination of the treatment and to prevent progression of peripheral nervous system damage.

Keywords: multiple myeloma, pre-existing polyneuropathy, questionnaires, myeloma treatment