[A case of angiosarcoma of the scalp with severe fluid retention after administering docetaxel]

A 7 3-year-old man with angiosarcoma was treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy, using docetaxel (25mg/m(2) weekly). While the size of the tumor reduced rapidly, fluid retention, considered as an adverse effect of docetaxel, appeared at the cumulative dose of 325mg/m(2). He required chest drainage for prolonged pleural effusion. Though fluid retention due to docetaxel is infrequently reported in Japan, it may lead to severe illness and require discontinuation of chemotherapy. When we administer docetaxel over a prolonged period, we should be aware of this adverse effect.