Capecitabine-Induced Enterocolitis

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Gastroenterology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Capecitabine is an FDA-approved oral chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal and breast cancer.
• Common side effects include GI upset, fatigue, and hematologic changes.
• Enterocolitis is a rare but serious gastrointestinal complication of capecitabine therapy.

Observation:

• A 53-year-old female patient with metastatic breast cancer developed severe enterocolitis.
• The enterocolitis progressed to ileus during capecitabine chemotherapy.
• The patient's condition was managed conservatively.

Findings:

• This case illustrates a rare presentation of capecitabine-induced enterocolitis.
• Successful conservative management of capecitabine-induced enterocolitis and ileus is demonstrated.
• Early recognition and management are crucial for this adverse event.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of monitoring for rare but severe GI side effects of capecitabine.
• Suggests conservative management can be effective for capecitabine-induced enterocolitis with ileus.
• Informs clinical practice regarding capecitabine toxicity in cancer patients.