The World Health Organization (WHO) published criteria for acute and subacute toxic effects on the nervous system following radiation and chemotherapy for cancer.
Parameters:
(1) state of consciousness
(2) peripheral neuropathy
(3) constipation, not related to the use of narcotics
where:
• I am not quite sure why constipation is listed with neurotoxicity rather than gastrointestinal toxicity.
Grade 0: if the findings are normal for a parameter
Grade of Toxicity
state of consciousness
peripheral neuropathy
constipation
Grade 0
alert
none
none
Grade 1
transient lethargy
paresthesias and/or decreased tendon reflexes
mild
Grade 2
somnolence < 50% of waking hours
severe paresthesias and/or mild weakness
moderate
Grade 3
somnolence >= 50% of waking hours
intolerable paresthesias and/or marked motor loss
abdominal distention
Grade 4
coma
paralysis
distention and vomiting
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
