Lower-extremity deep vein thrombosis induced by oxaliplatin and capecitabine chemotherapy: A case report

Oxaliplatin and capecitabine are instrumental in the adjunctive and palliative systemic management of colorectal cancer. The concurrent administration of these chemotherapeutic agents often results in adverse effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, leukopenia, and hand-foot syndrome. However, reports of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) caused by oxaliplatin and capecitabine are scarce. In this case study, we report a rare occurrence of lower-extremity DVT triggered by synergistic oxaliplatin and capecitabine chemotherapy in a patient diagnosed with malignant colon cancer. During the initial cycle of chemotherapy, the patient demonstrated DVT within the intermuscular veins of the right calf and abnormalities in markers of coagulation function. Enlargement of the intermuscular venous thrombosis and an increase in coagulation markers were observed subsequent to the second chemotherapy cycle. From our experience of this case, we suggest that DVT is induced by oxaliplatin and capecitabine warrants vigilant attention. Risk assessment for DVT prior to chemotherapy, coupled with early detection and intervention, is crucial for DVT prevention. Furthermore, enhancing the awareness of health care professionals and patients about the potential of chemotherapy-induced DVT is of paramount importance. Consequently, this case carries significant clinical implications.