Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, abbreviated CIPN, is nerve damage that occurs as a side effect of certain types of chemotherapy. A significant proportion of cancer patients receiving chemotherapy develop some form of neuropathy. Some chemotherapy drugs are more likely to damage the peripheral nerves, which transmit signals between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body.

CIPN typically affects the hands and feet first, causing symptoms such as tingling, prickling, burning sensations, or numbness. Some also experience electric shock-like sensations, cold sensitivity, or pain from light touch. Symptoms may begin during treatment or appear weeks to months later, and in some cases, they gradually worsen. Many find it difficult to perform fine motor tasks, such as buttoning clothes, while others experience balance problems or instability while walking.

The severity varies greatly from person to person. For some, symptoms are mild and temporary, while others experience persistent discomfort that significantly affects daily life even after treatment has ended. In some cases, the nerves can heal over time, but the process is slow and may take months or years. For some patients, the symptoms become permanent.

CIPN can be both physically and mentally challenging. Many experience frustration over loss of function and independence, and the persistent pain can significantly affect sleep, mood, and quality of life.