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"Ghosts in my body": Seizure-like presentation of hypocalcemic tetany secondary to hypomagnesemia in a patient receiving cetuximab therapy for metastatic medulloblastoma.

Authors :
Kidwell KS
Kopp WE
Albano EA
Brown AE
Source :
Journal of pediatric hematology/oncology [J Pediatr Hematol Oncol] 2014 May; Vol. 36 (4), pp. 305-7.
Publication Year :
2014

Abstract

Cetuximab, a monoclonal antibody specific for epidermal growth factor receptor, is increasingly used off-label and in early-phase trials for pediatric malignancies. Here, we report a patient with metastatic medulloblastoma receiving therapy with cyclophosphamide, vinblastine, and cetuximab. During evaluation for possible seizures, he was noted to be severely hypocalcemic, hypokalemic, and hypomagnesemic, a consequence of the blockade of renal epidermal growth factor receptor expression. His symptoms rapidly abated with intravenous electrolyte repletion. This case highlights the clinical heterogeneity of tetany and the importance of careful laboratory screening for known adverse effects of chemotherapy, particularly when newer biological agents are used off-study in combination chemotherapeutic regimens.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1536-3678
Volume :
36
Issue :
4
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Journal of pediatric hematology/oncology
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
23426003
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1097/MPH.0b013e318282d99c