Generalized seizures secondary to high-dose busulfan therapy.
Two patients without prior histories of neurologic disorders experienced generalized seizures while receiving high-dose busulfan (total dose 16 mg/kg) as part of a preparative regimen for allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. A review of the literature revealed 14 similar occurrences. Maintenance of therapeutic blood concentrations of phenytoin in subsequent patients at our institution has resulted in no further patients experiencing generalized seizures. Prophylactic anticonvulsant therapy should be considered in patients receiving high doses of busulfan.
Murphy
C P
CP
Bone Marrow Transplant Service, Humana Hospital University of Louisville, KY 40202.
Harden
E A
EA
Thompson
J M
JM
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002066:Busulfan / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004830:Epilepsy, Tonic-Clonic / Q000139:chemically induced*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015464:Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive / Q000150:complications; D015473:Leukemia, Promyelocytic, Acute / Q000150:complications; D008297:Male
D002066:Busulfan