How can chemotherapy affect nerve conduction studies?

Chemotherapy can lead to various types of neuropathies, which are disorders arising from damage to the peripheral nervous system. These neuropathies can significantly impact nerve conduction studies by altering the conduction velocity and amplitude of nerve impulses. The medications used in chemotherapy can cause axonal degeneration or demyelination, both of which affect how fast and efficiently signals are transmitted along nerves.

In cases where the nerve fibers are damaged, either the speed at which electrical signals travel (conduction velocity) or the strength of the signals (amplitude) may decrease. This means that the results of nerve conduction studies can show abnormalities, indicating that chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy has occurred. Recognizing these changes is important for assessing the extent of nerve damage and for managing the patient's treatment plan.