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Pellagra secondary to 5-fluorouracil
H P Stevens1, L S Ostlere, R H Begent
1Department of Dermatology, Royal Free Hospital and School of Medicine, London, U.K.
The British Journal of Dermatology
|May 1, 1993
Summary
Pellagra, a condition linked to nicotinic acid deficiency, can develop in cancer patients undergoing 5-fluorouracil treatment. Early diagnosis is crucial, as symptoms like skin rash and cognitive decline may worsen with chemotherapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Malignant diseases require comprehensive treatment strategies.
- Chemotherapy agents like 5-fluorouracil are common in cancer care.
- Nutritional deficiencies can complicate cancer treatment and patient outcomes.
Observation:
- A patient with malignant disease developed pellagra during 5-fluorouracil therapy.
- The patient presented with characteristic pellagra skin manifestations.
- Cerebral dysfunction was noted and exacerbated by the chemotherapy.
Findings:
- 5-fluorouracil treatment can precipitate or worsen pellagra in susceptible individuals.
- Pellagra, a nicotinic acid deficiency disorder, may be under-diagnosed in cancer patients.
- The interplay between malignancy, chemotherapy, and nutritional status is complex.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider pellagra in cancer patients presenting with dermatological and neurological symptoms.
- Awareness of this adverse effect can improve patient management and outcomes.
- Further research into nutritional support during chemotherapy is warranted.