American journal of clinical oncology
-
Am. J. Clin. Oncol. · Dec 1996
Review Case ReportsMediastinitis related to probable central vinblastine extravasation in a woman undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy for early breast cancer.
Adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer, although generally safe and of proven benefit, can have severe complications. Central venous catheter (CVC) complications are relatively common forms of treatment-related morbidity in this setting. We report a rare type of CVC-related complication, that of chemotherapy-induced mediastinitis from central venous extravasation of the drug vinblastine, in a women undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy. ⋯ Two similar cases have been reported in pediatric patients. It is likely that this clinical problem is underreported. Patients with CVCs actively undergoing chemotherapy with vesicant agents should be watched carefully for early signs of CVC disruption and subsequent extravasation, as it is likely that early intervention will be of benefit.