Thyroid Dysfunction from Antineoplastic Agents

Re: Thyroid dysfunction from antineoplastic agents.

In a recent review of thyroid dysfunction induced by antineoplastic agents, Hamnvik et al. (1) highlighted hypothyroidism as a common side effect of certain anticancer agents, an effect with the potential for favorably modifying outcomes in cancer patients. The article indicates that spontaneous or intentionally induced hypothyroidism may be associated with better clinical response rates and lo...

Occupational exposure to antineoplastic agents and parameters for renal dysfunction.

To study the nephrotoxic effects of occupational exposure to antineoplastic agents, the early renal effect parameters retinol-binding protein (RBP) and albumin (ALB) were determined in the urine of 11 hospital workers involved in the preparation and administration of antineoplastic agents and in 23 hospital workers not involved in drug handling, who served as nonexposed controls. No significant...

Antineoplastic Agents

Antibacterial activities of antineoplastic agents.

Fourteen antineoplastic agents were examined for in vitro antibacterial activity against 101 aerobic and anaerobic bacterial isolates representing indigenous human microflora and selected opportunistic pathogens. Only 5-fluorouracil, mitomycin, and etoposide demonstrated inhibitory effects at achievable plasma concentrations, while the remaining drugs lacked appreciable antibacterial activities.

Handling of injectable antineoplastic agents.

Although the clinical toxicity of antineoplastic drugs has been well documented there is little or no information on the problems that may arise on the handling and mishandling of such agents. This paper attempts to highlight the importance of taking precautions to prevent adverse effects resulting from contact with cytotoxic drugs during handling and to suggest a practical guide for the handli...