Methemoglobinemia after infusion of ifosfamide chemotherapy: first report of a potentially serious adverse reaction related to ifosfamide

Chest. 2000 Oct;118(4):1208-10. doi: 10.1378/chest.118.4.1208.

Abstract

Acute formation of methemoglobin is a life-threatening condition caused by multiple medications. In this article we report the first case of methemoglobinemia in a patient with metastatic uterine leiomyosarcoma, after infusion of ifosfamide chemotherapy. The patient recovered after prompt diagnosis and treatment of the condition. A mechanism for the formation of methemoglobin as a result of the ifosfamide infusion is offered.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating / administration & dosage
  • Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating / adverse effects*
  • Biomarkers / blood
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Ifosfamide / administration & dosage
  • Ifosfamide / adverse effects*
  • Infusions, Intravenous
  • Leiomyosarcoma / drug therapy*
  • Methemoglobin / metabolism
  • Methemoglobinemia / blood
  • Methemoglobinemia / chemically induced*
  • Methemoglobinemia / diagnosis
  • Middle Aged
  • Uterine Neoplasms / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Alkylating
  • Biomarkers
  • Methemoglobin
  • Ifosfamide