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Reversible posterior encephalopathy syndrome associated with bortezomib
E Terwiel1, R Hanrahan, C Lueck
1Department of Haematology, The Canberra Hospital, Woden, Australian Capital Territory, Australia.
Internal Medicine Journal
|June 22, 2010
Summary
Reversible posterior encephalopathy syndrome (RPES) is rarely seen with cancer treatments. This study details the first RPES case linked to bortezomib, a proteasome inhibitor, suggesting impaired cerebral blood flow regulation as a cause.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Reversible posterior encephalopathy syndrome (RPES) is an uncommon neurological condition.
- RPES is increasingly associated with various anti-neoplastic therapies.
- Proteasome inhibitors are a class of anti-cancer drugs.
Observation:
- This report describes the first documented case of RPES in a patient treated with bortezomib, a proteasome inhibitor.
- The patient experienced neurological symptoms consistent with RPES during bortezomib therapy.
Findings:
- The occurrence of RPES with bortezomib is a novel finding.
- Review of existing literature shows RPES can be associated with other anti-cancer agents.
- Cerebral vasomotor dysregulation is proposed as the mechanism for bortezomib-induced RPES.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of monitoring for neurological side effects in patients receiving bortezomib.
- Understanding the pathophysiology of RPES associated with anti-cancer drugs can inform clinical management.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the exact mechanisms and risk factors for RPES in patients undergoing cancer therapy.
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