5-FU induced cardiotoxicity: case series and review of the literature

Abstract

Abstract Background 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is an antimetabolite chemotherapy used for a variety of solid tumors. It has the potential to cause a wide spectrum of cardiotoxicity, ranging from asymptomatic electrocardiographic changes to cardiomyopathy and subsequent cardiac failure. Main body of the abstract: We present two descriptive cases of new-onset severe cardiomyopathy induced by 5-FU followed by a review of the literature. Conclusion Our case series emphasizes the importance of early recognition of this rare complication and prompt cessation of 5-FU, as cardiac dysfunction in this context is potentially reversible.

Keywords

• Fluoropyrimidine
• 5-FU
• 5-fluorouracil
• Cardiotoxicity
• Cancer
• Colorectal cancer