What are the symptoms of cerebellar toxicity?

What are the symptoms of acute cerebellar ataxia?

• impaired coordination in the torso or arms and legs.
• frequent stumbling.
• an unsteady gait.
• uncontrolled or repetitive eye movements.
• trouble eating and performing other fine motor tasks.
• slurred speech.
• vocal changes.
• headaches.

Is cytarabine the same as cytosine arabinoside?

Cytarabine, also known as cytosine arabinoside (ara-C), is a chemotherapy medication used to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML), acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It is given by injection into a vein, under the skin, or into the cerebrospinal fluid.

Does cytarabine cause neurotoxicity?

Both cytarabine and its metabolites can cause neurotoxicity through a DNA synthesis-independent process since adult neurons are postmitotic [7]. The exact mechanism of cytarabine neurotoxicity is unknown, but autopsies revealed loss of Purkinje cells in the cerebellum and reactive proliferation of glial cells [8].

How does Ara c work?

How it works. Cytarabine is a type of chemotherapy drug. It kills cancer cells by stopping them from making and repairing DNA that they need to grow and multiply.

Can cerebellar ataxia be reversed?

Cerebellar ataxia can’t be cured, but some cases can be treated. MAYWOOD, Ill. (March 23, 2015) – No cures are possible for most patients who suffer debilitating movement disorders called cerebellar ataxias.

How toxic is cytarabine?

Adverse effects from high-dose cytarabine (2-3 g/m2) include severe and occasionally fatal CNS, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal or pulmonary toxicity, as well as corneal toxicity or conjunctivitis (may be hemorrhagic). Ocular toxicity is minimized by prophylactic use of ophthalmic corticosteroids.

Can cytarabine cause neuropathy?

Intravenous (IV) therapy may cause a peripheral neuropathy that varies greatly in its severity. The high IV cytarabine doses now commonly used can cause seizures, cerebral dysfunction, or an acute cerebellar syndrome with an incidence up to 14%.

What is cytosine arabinoside used for?

Cytarabine (cytosine arabinoside, Ara-C) is a pyrimidine analogue that inhibits DNA replication. It has been given intravenously for leukemias and lymphomas and intrathecally for leptomeningeal metastases. 46 Neurotoxicity is related to the route, as well as the dose administered.

What are the side effects of high-dose cytosine arabinoside (HDAC)?

High-dose cytosine arabinoside or ARA-C (HDAC) has been shown to be an effective regimen in patients who are refractory to conventional doses. Neurotoxicity, a side effect associated with HDAC, has been reported in 7%-28% of patients.

Does high-dose cytarabine cause neurotoxicity?

“Implementation and Evaluation of a High-Dose Cytarabine Neurologic Assessment Tool.” Clin J Oncol Nurs 19 (3):270-272. Patients receiving high-dose cytarabine as part of their chemotherapy regimen have a chance of experiencing neurotoxicities.

Should oncology nurses assess for cerebellar toxicity?

Cerebellar toxicity is a known potential adverse effect of high-dose cytarabine chemotherapy. Oncology nurses are expected to assess patients receiving high-dose cytarabine for cerebellar toxicity prior to administering each dose.