Work

Cytarabine-Induced Cerebellar Toxicity in a Young Patient with B-Cell ALL: A Case Report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Acute cerebellar toxicity following high-dose cytarabine treatment is a well-documented but rare complication. Symptoms can progress if therapy continues even after the initial onset of deficits hence, prompt recognition and termination of treatment is essential. Case Presentation: We report a case of a 20-year-old Filipino male with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in relapse, with leptomeningeal spread, presenting with impaired saccades and pursuits, scanning speech, head titubation, limb and truncal ataxia after chemotherapy with high dose cytarabine. The patient was managed as a case of cytarabine-induced cerebellar toxicity and treated with intravenous dexamethasone, with resolution of cerebellar deficits. Conclusion: Certain risk factors are speculated to predispose patients to cerebellar toxicity. However, no single factor has been proven to be an absolute determinant. Our case highlights central nervous system disease as a risk factor for cytarabine-induced cerebellar degeneration.

Source: Case Reports in Neurology

DOI: 10.1159/000548992

Authors: Natalie Roxanne B. Nisce, John Rex C. Butial, Rowel David D. Yap, Ana Margarita R. Natividad, Jose Leonard R. Pascual, Carissa Paz C. Dioquino

Institutions: Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila

Language: English

Topic: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia research

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,030