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Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome in a child treated with bevacizumab
Author(s) -
Levy Carolyn Fein,
Oo Khine Zin,
Fireman Fernando,
Pierre Louisdon,
Bania Marita A.,
Sadanandan Swayamprabha,
Yamashiro Darrell J.,
Bender Julia L. Glade
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
pediatric blood and cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.116
H-Index - 105
eISSN - 1545-5017
pISSN - 1545-5009
DOI - 10.1002/pbc.21866
Subject(s) - bevacizumab , medicine , hepatoblastoma , vascular endothelial growth factor , oxaliplatin , gemcitabine , leukoencephalopathy , refractory (planetary science) , pediatrics , vegf receptors , oncology , colorectal cancer , chemotherapy , cancer , physics , disease , astrobiology
Bevacizumab is a monoclonal antibody targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Hypertension is a well‐recognized, common side effect of VEGF blocking agents. The reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (RPLS) has been described as a rare but serious consequence of bevacizumab administration. We present a case of a 6‐year‐old child with refractory hepatoblastoma who developed hypertensive crisis, seizures and MRI changes consistent with RPLS while receiving bevacizumab with gemcitabine and oxaliplatin. Findings completely resolved without neurologic sequelae with stringent blood‐pressure control. Better understanding of risk for RPLS, prompt recognition and aggressive management will be required as bevacizumab gains wider use in pediatrics. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:669–671. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.