Preventing Sensory and Motor Dysfunctions in Children Receiving Neurotoxic Chemotherapy

Summary

The investigators would like to conduct a prospective, multicenter, two-armed trial (RCT with follow-up). Patients will be recruited from 7 centers (CH/D). All patients (and their guardians) scheduled to receive chemotherapy containing either a platinum derivate or vinca-alkaloid, will be asked to participate. Willing patients will then be randomized either into an intervention group or a control group. Patients in the intervention group will perform a standardized, age-adjusted, specific playful sensorimotor training (SMT) program twice a week for the duration of their medical therapy, in addition to usual care, while the control group receives treatment as usual. The CG will be given the opportunity to participate in the intervention after therapy. Data will be assessed at 3-4 time points: Prior to chemotherapy (baseline T0), after 12 weeks (T1), after completion of therapy for children that are treated \>3 months (Tp) and after 12 months follow-up (T3). Additionally, status of Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) reported symptoms will be monitored twice in-between (6 weeks). The investigators hypothesize that less children in the intervention group will develop symptoms of CIPN (TNS score) with its debilitating side-effects. Furthermore, children in the intervention group will be able to maintain relevant motor and sensory functions and their associated physical functions which will enable them to receive their planned medical therapy but also to stay on the age-appropriate motor development level, improve their quality life and enhance social reintegration after therapy.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

* All tumor patients, aged 6-18 years, who are scheduled to receive neurotoxic chemotherapy with a platinum-derivate or vinca- alkaloid (e.g. vincristine, vinblastin mono, carboplatinum, cisplatin).

Exclusion Criteria:

* Exclusion criteria are known neuropathies of other cause (e.g. diabetes), disabilities or lack of German language that prevent the understanding of the informed consent as well as the instructions for training.

Conditions3

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