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[Prolonged neuromuscular block induced by mivacurium in a patient treated with cyclophosphamide]

D Vigouroux1, L Voltaire

  • 1Service d'Anesthésie Urgences et Réanimation, CHR Rangueil, Toulouse.

Insights

Cyclophosphamide may prolong neuromuscular block from mivacurium chloride, impacting anesthesia recovery. Continuous neuromuscular monitoring is vital for patient safety during surgery.

Area of Science:

  • Anesthesiology
  • Pharmacology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Mivacurium chloride is a common neuromuscular blocking agent.
  • Cyclophosphamide is an immunosuppressant used for autoimmune diseases like Wegener's granulomatosis.
  • Reduced plasma butyrilcholinesterase activity can prolong the action of certain neuromuscular blockers.

Observation:

  • A 45-year-old patient receiving cyclophosphamide experienced prolonged neuromuscular block after mivacurium chloride administration during laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
  • Neuromuscular function monitoring (train-of-four) indicated a 75-minute duration of action after the initial intubation dose.
  • Additional low-dose boluses were required to maintain muscle relaxation, and spontaneous recovery took 40 minutes.

Findings:

  • The patient's plasma butyrilcholinesterase activity was reduced by 50%.
  • The prolonged neuromuscular block is likely attributable to the interaction between cyclophosphamide and mivacurium chloride, potentially due to reduced enzyme activity.
  • Neuromuscular transmission monitoring demonstrated its value in managing such prolonged effects.

Implications:

  • This case highlights a potential drug interaction between cyclophosphamide and mivacurium chloride, necessitating careful anesthetic management.
  • Clinicians should consider reduced butyrilcholinesterase activity in patients on cyclophosphamide when administering mivacurium chloride.
  • Continuous neuromuscular monitoring is crucial for ensuring adequate recovery and patient safety in cases of suspected prolonged neuromuscular blockade.

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