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The syndrome of 5‐fluorouracil cardiotoxicity. An elusive cardiopathy
Author(s) -
Robben Norbertus C.,
Pippas Andrew W.,
Moore Joseph O.
Publication year - 1993
Publication title -
cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.052
H-Index - 304
eISSN - 1097-0142
pISSN - 0008-543X
DOI - 10.1002/1097-0142(19930115)71:2<493::aid-cncr2820710235>3.0.co;2-c
Subject(s) - medicine , cardiogenic shock , cardiotoxicity , complication , fluorouracil , myocardial infarction , incidence (geometry) , cardiology , angina , coronary artery disease , pathophysiology , toxicity , chemotherapy , physics , optics
Background . A case of reversible cardiogenic shock linked to 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) was observed. Recognizing the increasing use of 5‐FU, the authors tried to map this syndrome. Methods . They reviewed 134 additional case reports, retrieved information from literature searches, focused on clinical features, and discussed possible pathophysiologic findings and prevention of this syndrome. Results . Although angina and electrocardiographic changes were common and reproducible (approximately 90% each), coronary artery disease was found in a few patients. A total of 33 patients had severe left ventricular dysfunction, 28 without evidence of myocardial infarction. The symptoms were responsive to conservative management (90%). Conclusions . Cardiac toxicity is a little known complication of 5‐FU therapy, with an unknown but significant incidence. It is highly treatable.