[Complications of antitumor and antileukemia chemotherapy. 3 (conclusion)]

Among the neurological side-effects, peripheral neuropathy is a result of therapy with vindesine and above all vincristine. Although in most cases it is responsible only for paresthesias, it may cause extensive paralysis and requires that the drug be discontinued. These drugs may also affect the neurovegetative system. Ototoxicity may be seen with cis-platinum and vigilance disturbances with L-asparaginase. Genetic consequences are mainly due to alkylating agents. These agents almost constantly impair male and female fertility but recovery is possible. Libido is also affected with the attendant psychological consequences. The offspring of patients previously treated by chemotherapeutic agents are normal. Development of secondary carcinoma or leukemia is currently a major concern. Secondary malignant disease may develop after the treatment of any cancer, especially if radiotherapy was associated with alkylating agents. Leukemias are of the acute myeloid type and usually follow a preleukemic phase. A table summarizes the main toxicities of the most usual drugs.