Ototoxicity induced by platinum compounds-based chemoradiotherapy: A review

Abstract

Platinum analogues, such as cisplatin, and radiotherapy are used separately or in combination to treat several neoplasms in pediatric and adult populations. Nonetheless, the use of these treatments may lead to ototoxicity, especially when these treatments are concomitantly used to treat head and neck cancers, which can manifest as progres- sive and irreversible hearing loss that decreases quality of life. Several mechanisms have been proposed in order to explain the damage to the auditory structures induced by these treatment modalities, including: reactive oxygen species production and in- flammation, leading to cell death. Although several otoprotective strategies have been attempted in humans, their effectiveness and security are unclear. The objective of this review is to provide an updated and general overview on platinum-based chemoradio- therapy induced ototoxicity, discussing its basis, clinical features, potential treatments and preventive strategies developed in recent years.