Infusional 5-fluorouracil in Cutaneous Leukaemia: a Novel Palliative Therapy in Haematological Malignancy

Abstract

We describe the management of a woman suffering from acute myelomonocytic leukaemia with cutaneous involvement. Following treatment with conventional chemotherapy she was in complete remission, but then suffered an isolated skin relapse. In order to limit side effects and myelotoxicity, an experimental therapy using a continuous infusion of 5-fluorouracil was employed. This was completely successful in eradicating the skin lesions, the patient suffered no side effects and blood counts remained within normal limits throughout. Infusional 5FU may have a role in palliative therapy in haematological malignancy.

Keywords:

• 5 fluorouracil
• cutaneous leukaemia