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01-05-2008 | Review Article

Chemotherapy-Associated Osteonecrosis in Cancer Patients with Solid Tumours

A Systematic Review

Authors: Katharine Shim, Mary J. MacKenzie, Dr Eric Winquist

Published in: Drug Safety | Issue 5/2008

Abstract

Non-traumatic osteonecrosis of bone is recognized as a potential complication in solid-tumour cancer patients receiving treatment with cytotoxic chemotherapy. This review summarizes recent reports of osteonecrosis associated with chemotherapy in cancer patients, and describes the possible underlying pathophysiology and options available for its diagnosis, prevention and treatment. Fifty-four reported cases of non-traumatic osteonecrosis in adult patients with solid tumours receiving chemotherapy were identified by searching for reports in the medical literature. Osteonecrosis was observed most commonly in men receiving chemotherapy for testicular cancer. Osteonecrosis was also seen in patients receiving chemotherapy for breast, ovarian, small-cell lung cancer and osteosarcoma. Most patients had received corticosteroids, had femoral head involvement and had delayed onset of osteonecrosis. It appears that patients at higher risk for osteonecrosis with chemotherapy are identifiable. As the long-term survival of patients with solid tumours receiving chemotherapy increases, the prevalence of treatment-related osteonecrosis may also increase. Patients should be informed that osteonecrosis is a potential complication of cancer treatment. Measures to reduce risk should be taken, and patients should be monitored for early symptoms. Routine screening for chemotherapy-associated osteonecrosis is not recommended; however, a high index of clinical suspicion in patients at risk may allow for early intervention and preservation of the joints.

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Title: Chemotherapy-Associated Osteonecrosis in Cancer Patients with Solid Tumours
A Systematic Review
Authors: Katharine Shim
Mary J. MacKenzie
Dr Eric Winquist
Publication date: 01-05-2008
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Published in: Drug Safety / Issue 5/2008
Print ISSN: 0114-5916
Electronic ISSN: 1179-1942
DOI: https://doi.org/10.2165/00002018-200831050-00001

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Chemotherapy-Associated Osteonecrosis in Cancer Patients with Solid Tumours

A Systematic Review

Abstract

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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