Intrathecal Methotrexate and Acute Neurotoxicity: A Painful Experience

Altinbas A., Cavus S., Koca E., Cetiner D., Shorbagi A., Haznedaroglu I. C.

UHOD-ULUSLARARASI HEMATOLOJI-ONKOLOJI DERGISI, vol.18, no.3, pp.163-165, 2008 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 18 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2008
  • Journal Name: UHOD-ULUSLARARASI HEMATOLOJI-ONKOLOJI DERGISI
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
  • Page Numbers: pp.163-165
  • Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Intrathecal treatment with methotrexate, an essential chemotherapeutic for both prophylaxis and treatment of central nervous system involvement of leukemia, may be associated with local neurotoxicity and/or systemic toxicity. Signs of acute neurotoxicity include confusion, disorientation, seizures, aphasia, ataxia, dysarthria, paresis and even paralysis. Presented here is a case of a 58 year old patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia who developed acute neurotoxicity after her 13th dose of intrathecal methotrexate. Available treatment options are also discussed.