International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

Call for Paper Volume 8, Issue 4 (July-August 2026) Submit your research before last 3 days of August to publish your research paper in the issue of July-August.

Chemotherapy-Induced Hand–Foot Syndrome: A Narrative Review of Prevention, Assessment, and Evidence-Based Nursing Management

Author(s) Sheikh aabidah akram, Kumarasamy AP, Vikram Singh Deora
Country India
Abstract Background
Chemotherapy-induced Hand–Foot Syndrome (HFS), also known as palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia, is a common dose-limiting cutaneous toxicity associated with several anticancer agents, particularly capecitabine, 5-fluorouracil, pegylated liposomal doxorubicin, and multikinase inhibitors. HFS can significantly impair patients' physical function, activities of daily living, treatment adherence, and overall quality of life. Early recognition, appropriate assessment, preventive interventions, and evidence-based nursing management are essential to minimize symptom severity and optimize treatment outcomes.12
Methods
A narrative review methodology was adopted to synthesize current evidence regarding chemotherapy-induced HFS. Electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, were searched for English-language articles published between 2000 and 2025. Original research articles, clinical guidelines, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and evidence-based practice recommendations focusing on prevention, assessment, and management of HFS were included. The evidence was synthesized narratively according to major thematic areas.
Results
The reviewed literature demonstrates that HFS is a multifactorial adverse effect resulting from the accumulation of chemotherapeutic agents in the skin, leading to inflammation and damage to keratinocytes and eccrine sweat glands. Early identification through standardized grading systems, patient education, prophylactic skin care, dose modification, topical therapies, and multidisciplinary nursing interventions effectively reduce symptom severit
and improve treatment adherence. Evidence also supports the role of structured nursing assessment, patient counseling, and individualized supportive care in improving quality of life.
Conclusion
Chemotherapy-induced HFS remains a clinically significant toxicity affecting cancer treatment and patient well-being. Comprehensive prevention strategies, standardized assessment tools, and evidence-based nursing management are essential for minimizing treatment interruptions and improving clinical outcomes. Further high-quality prospective studies are needed to strengthen current recommendations and optimize supportive care practices.
Keywords Hand–Foot Syndrome; Palmar-Plantar Erythrodysesthesia; Chemotherapy; Nursing Management; Prevention; Oncology Nursing.
Field Medical / Pharmacy
Published In Volume 8, Issue 3, May-June 2026
Published On 2026-06-28
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i03.82524

Share this