Central nervous system toxicity with high-dose Ara-C.
We evaluated the CNS complications in 118 adults with acute leukemia who received IV high-dose Ara-C therapy. Fourteen (12%) had cerebellar signs, encephalopathy, seizures, or leukoencephalopathy. Symptoms usually occurred within 24 hours after the last treatment. Patients receiving a cumulative dose in excess of 24 g/m2 had more severe or irreversible symptoms. After lower cumulative doses, symptoms often resolved even though treatment was continued. The incidence of CNS complications of high-dose Ara-C is acceptable and is potentially reversible if appropriate precautions are taken.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001927:Brain Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced; D002493:Central Nervous System Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced*; D002526:Cerebellar Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced; D003561:Cytarabine / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007938:Leukemia / Q000188:drug therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged
D003561:Cytarabine