Neurological complications of radiotherapy and chemotherapy

J Neurol. 1998 Nov;245(11):695-708. doi: 10.1007/s004150050271.

Abstract

Neurological complications of radiotherapy and chemotherapy can affect the central or peripheral nervous system. Most are dose-dependent and constitute a limiting factor in the administration of treatments. Radiation-induced neurological complications are classified as acute, early-delayed or delayed. The most important are radionecrosis and cognitive dysfunction/leukoencephalopathy. Neurotoxicity of chemotherapy is frequent and depends upon dose, type of drugs (especially cisplatin and methotrexate) and their combination with radiotherapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Cognition / drug effects
  • Cranial Irradiation / adverse effects
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Nervous System Diseases / etiology*
  • Nervous System Diseases / pathology
  • Radiotherapy / adverse effects*
  • Spinal Cord / radiation effects

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents