5-Fluorouracil induced severe febrile neutropenia and death

Abstract

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) induced severe febrile neutropenia is a serious threat which, if unnoticed may lead to death. We present here a case of 46 years old female patient who suffered severe febrile neutropenia and finally death due to 5-FU. Naranjo's causality assessment revealed that 5-Fluorouracil was the probable cause of severe febrile neutropenia. 5-Fluorouracil induced hematological toxicities vary between individuals. Of them, severe febrile neutropenia is a serious threat, which increases the vulnerability of patient to bacterial infections. Patients must be made aware of the side effects of chemotherapy through proper medication counselling and clear take home information. It helps them to consult the physician at the right time so that the side effects can be managed in time.