Spontaneous massive duodenal perforation after ovarian cancer treatment with bevacizumab

Abstract

Bevacizumab has been used as an effective drug for ovarian cancer. However, serious adverse effects, such as gastrointestinal perforation, can occur. Spontaneous gastrointestinal perforation is an uncommon, yet life-threatening complication related to bevacizumab administration. We present the case of a 65-year-old Caucasian female who presented with acute abdomen 10 days after the first administration of bevacizumab for ovarian cancer treatment, and she was diagnosed intraoperatively with a massive duodenal perforation. Bowel perforation after bevacizumab administration is a serious and potentially lethal complication. Careful follow-up of the patients is necessary in order to detect any signs of this condition in time.