The effects of neuromuscular alterations in elders with cancer.
OBJECTIVE
To review the effects of normal aging on declines in function of peripheral nerves and muscles and the additive effects of chemotherapy and comorbidity in elders undergoing cancer treatment.


METHODS
Research studies and published articles.


CONCLUSIONS
Chemotherapy negatively affects physical functioning and recovery in elders with cancer through neurotoxicity and myotoxicity. Intact sensory nerves and muscles are crucial in maintaining physical function and independence for elders.


CONCLUSIONS
While older patients with cancer may benefit from chemotherapy, clinical practices to minimize toxicities, provide monitoring for functional decline, and intervene to maintain function are needed.
Visovsky
Constance
C
University of Nebraska Medical Center, College of Nursing, Omaha, NE 68198-5330, USA. cvisovsky@unmc.edu
D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology*; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D015897:Comorbidity; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D008403:Mass Screening; D018908:Muscle Weakness / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D009460:Neurologic Examination; D020258:Neurotoxicity Syndromes / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D015399:Nursing Research; D009859:Oncology Nursing; D010525:Peripheral Nerves / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D012307:Risk Factors
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents