Chemotherapy-induced Nausea and Vomiting

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is a distressing and common adverse event associated with cancer treatment. Seventy to eighty percent of patients undergoing chemotherapy experience emesis, with 10-44% experiencing anticipatory emesis. CINV results in significant morbidity and negatively impacts patient quality of life. CINV may also cause non-adherence to chemotherapy or dose reductions due to nausea and vomiting. Supportive care and management of CINV are essential elements of effective cancer treatment. Failure to adequately control CINV can lead to a number of complications, including weakness, weight loss, electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, or anoerixia, and is associated with a variety of complications, including fractures, esophageal tears, decline in behavioral and mental status, and wound dehiscence. Good control and management of CINV can greatly improve patients' overall quality of life and requires dedicated team work from oncologists and oncology nurses.
Part of the new Oxford American Pocket Notses series, this very concise guide presents a brief overview of the classification, prevention, and management of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. A valuable resource in the hospital setting for oncologists and oncology nurses alike, this practical, up-to-date volume includes sections on the pathophysiology and clinical features of CINV, as well as treatment therapies including new and emerging antiemetic agents. Uniquely compact and affordable, this book contains current guidelines from ASCO, NCCN, and ONS for managaing CINV in the outpatient setting. In addition, it includes discussions of future research trends and information on additional online resources for clinicians and nurses.

Rudolph M. Navari, M.D., Ph.D
Professor of Medicine
Assistant Dean and Director IUSM-SB
Director, Notre Dame Cancer Institute