Keeping in mind the fluoropyrimidine-induced neurotoxicity

Abstract

Fluoropyrimidine-induced neurotoxicity is a rare but potentially serious adverse effect, with a wide range of clinical presentations and often nonspecific symptoms, requiring a high level of clinical suspicion and the exclusion of alternative causes of encephalopathy. The physiopathogenic mechanisms remain uncertain; however, this adverse effect usually occurs in settings involving interference with the drug's metabolic pathway. Further studies are needed to define optimal management strategies. This article aims to review the clinicopathological aspects, diagnostic criteria, and management approaches to fluoropyrimidine-induced neurotoxicity.