Introduction Over the last several years, molecularly targeted therapy has emerged as a new generation of cancer treatment and has been integrated into treatment protocols of many hematologic and solid tumors, either as monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy. In…
Introduction Cancer treatments have the potential to cause infusion reactions (IRs). It is important to manage IRs because they may cause treatment disruption and require costly medical interventions. Both cytotoxic and biological agents cause IRs. In general, IRs can be…
Introduction Cardiotoxic effects of chemotherapy are challenging in nature, since myocardial tissue possesses limited regenerative capacity, which renders the heart susceptible to transient and permanent side effects of chemotherapy agents. Furthermore, with increasing incidence of cardiovascular disease in the general…
Introduction Chemotherapy can affect skin in various ways, and several chemotherapeutic agents have been linked to distinctive cutaneous side effects. Although these side effects are rarely life-threatening, they can cause considerable distress and discomfort to patients (alopecia, hyperpigmentation), negatively impacting…
Introduction Respiratory insufficiency in patients receiving systemic chemotherapy often is a diagnostic dilemma for clinicians. Patients receiving chemotherapy are frequently immunosuppressed and may have concurrent bone marrow suppression, or pulmonary involvement from underlying malignancy, making the differential diagnosis of respiratory…
Introduction Chemotherapy-related neurotoxicity is a frequently observed side effect that has become more prevalent with the increasing number of long-term cancer survivors. These toxicities can be peripheral or central and can range from minor cognitive issues to encephalopathy or dementia.…
Introduction Gastrointestinal (GI) toxicities are common side effects of most chemotherapy agents. Their effect on rapidly dividing GI tract cells can lead to mucosal inflammation, ulceration, and perforation. The most common GI toxicities include oral mucositis (see Chapter 5 ),…
Introduction ■ Mucositis is defined as inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the alimentary tract, causing mucosal injury. Mucositis can occur in response to systemic chemotherapy or other etiologies (e.g., infection, radiation). Mucositis generally begins approximately 3 to 4 days…
Introduction ■ A multitude of cancer treatments are known to cause thrombocytopenia (TCP), termed treatment-related thrombocytopenia. Chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia (CIT) is a term that refers specifically to thrombocytopenia caused by chemotherapy drugs. Notably, many nonchemotherapy cancer treatments may also cause thrombocytopenia.…
Introduction ■ Anemia is caused by the deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, resulting in a reduction in the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood and is commonly associated with cancer-directed therapies. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and cancer-related surgery can all contribute to…