Cyclophosphamide-induced Atrial Fibrillation With Rapid Ventricular Rate

Abstract

Cyclophosphamide (CYA), also known as cytophosphane, is a medication used as a chemotherapeutic agent and immune suppressor.Its common adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bone marrow suppression, hemorrhagic cystitis, alopecia, lethargy, and cardiotoxicity. Cyclophosphamide-related cardiac toxicity is not uncommon and causes potentially serious complications in patients. In this review, we present a case of a 65-years-old patient who developed atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular rate (RVR) after receiving a single dose of CYA. In this case, the advanced age of the patient, pre-treatment with prednisone, and renal insufficiency most likely predisposed the patient to CYA-induced cardiac toxicity. A relevant literature review was also conducted to determine the pathogenesis, risk factors, and spectrum of CYA-induced cardiac toxicity.