[Central nervous system complications in patients undergoing cytotoxic chemotherapy and targeted therapies]

Abstract

Anti-cancer treatments (cytotoxic chemotherapies, targeted therapies and hormonotherapies) are known to induce early and delayed neurological toxicities. Acute encephalopathies and posterior reversible encephalopathies are better known and described, physiopathological hypotheses are emerging. It is difficult to discriminate what drug is causing the symptoms in patients treated with multiple cytotoxic drugs. Methotrexate and ifosfamide are responsible for acute encephalopathies. L-asparaginase and methotrexate or targeted therapies may induce cerebrovascular complications. As life expectancy increases and more complex regimen including innovative targeted therapies are developed, new toxicity profiles can be expected. To be able to provide an early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment (when existing) of these pathologies remains a tremendous challenge that would allow a good quality of life with social and professional life after their cancer is cured.