Methotrexate-induced subacute myelopathy: a serious but treatable complication

J Clin Exp Hematop. 2023;63(4):251-256. doi: 10.3960/jslrt.23041.ABSTRACTSubacute myelopathy is a rare but serious complication of methotrexate (MTX) that may cause paraplegia. Although its underlying mechanisms have not been fully elucidated, homocysteine is thought to play a role in the pathogenesis of this adverse effect. Herein, we report the case of a 34-years old female patient with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma who developed progressive paraplegia accompanied by dysfunctional bladder and bowel movements after treatment with a modified CODOX-M/IVAC regimen, including high-dose intravenous MTX and intrathecal (IT-) MTX. Neurological symptoms gradually improved to almost normal levels within 4.5 months of onset following treatment with a combination of S-adenosylmethionine, methionine, cyanocobalamin, and folate. During chemotherapy, including high-dose MTX and IT-MTX for hematological malignancies, MTX-induced subacute neuronal damage should be carefully evaluated, and appropriate treatment should be initiated as early as possible.PMID:38148015 | DOI:10.3960/jslrt.23041
Source: Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hematopathology : JCEH - Category: Hematology Authors: Source Type: research