Docetaxel-induced Severe Fluid Retention in a Breast Cancer Patient: A Case Report / 한국유방암학회지

ABSTRACT

Among many adverse effects of docetaxel, fluid retention is a well recognized, cumulative side effect, but severe fluid retention is rare. We report here on a case of docetaxel-induced severe fluid retention with peripheral edema, pleural effusion, severe ascites and pericardial effusion in a 41-year-old woman. She had been treated with 3 cycles of docetaxel 9 days previously and she was admitted to our hospital due to abdominal distention and mild dyspnea. Radiologic studies revealed pleural effusion, severe ascites and a small pericardial effusion. Diuretics were given for 21 days. The pleural effusion was resolved after treatment with diuretics for 2 days, but the ascites wasn't resolved until 14 days of diuretics. After treatment with diuretics for 21 days, all the symptoms of the patient were completely resolved. Early detection is mandatory and diuretics are very effective for patient suffering with docetaxel-induced severe fluid retention.