Hepatotoxicity of chemotherapy

Expert Opin Drug Saf. 2002 Nov;1(4):339-53. doi: 10.1517/14740338.1.4.339.

Abstract

The selection of a chemotherapeutic regimen for the oncology patient is based on a thorough assessment of potential hazards relating to the patient's clinical condition and the toxicities of chemotherapy. Liver function abnormalities are commonly seen in this patient population and deducing their aetiology may be difficult. Immunosuppression, paraneoplastic phenomena, infectious disease, metastases and polypharmacy may all confound the clinical picture. While criteria for standardising liver injury have been established, dose modifications often rely on empirical clinical judgement. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of hepatotoxic manifestations for the most common chemotherapeutic agents is essential. This article reviews the hepatotoxicity of commonly utilised antineoplastic agents.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury* / classification
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury* / enzymology
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury* / physiopathology
  • Humans

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents