Capecitabine-induced Leukoencephalopathy Presenting with Signs of Transient Ischemic Attack

Abstract

Capecitabine is an oral chemotherapeutic agent used primarily in the treatment of colorectal cancer and breast cancer. With this case report, we aimed to report a patient admitted to the emergency department with stroke-like symptoms as a side effect of capecitabine. Magnetic resonance imaging showed signal changes in the cerebral white matter typical of capecitabine leukoencephalopathy. Since the mechanism of action is not fully understood, clinicians should be aware of this rare complication in order to make appropriate therapeutic decisions.

Keywords

• transient ischemic attack
• leukoencephalopathy
• capecitabine