Fluoropyrimidines: A Cardiotoxicity Case for Caution

Fluoropyrimidines are widely used in cancer treatment but can cause cardiac adverse effects.

A 57-year-old man with esophageal cancer, receiving fluoropyrimidine-based therapy, was referred for preoperative cardiac evaluation. Abnormal electrocardiogram findings raised concern for ischemia, but coronary angiography ruled out obstructive disease. Fluoropyrimidine-induced coronary vasospasm was suspected, and calcium channel blocker therapy was initiated. Five months later, after tumor recurrence, continuous fluoropyrimidine infusion was restarted without cardiology consultation, and calcium channel blocker therapy had been discontinued. The patient developed cardiogenic shock and died.

Current guidelines provide limited recommendations for managing suspected fluoropyrimidine-induced coronary vasospasm.

Fluoropyrimidine-induced coronary vasospasm poses a clinical challenge. Retreatment may be feasible if obstructive coronary artery disease is excluded, and prophylactic vasospasm therapy is administered within a structured protocol.

Fluoropyrimidines can cause life-threatening coronary vasospasm. With multidisciplinary care, continued therapy may be possible. Awareness among oncologists, cardiologists, primary care physicians, and patients is critical.