Hyperammonemic Encephalopathy Associated with 5-Flurouracil Infusion in Head and Neck Cancer: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Hyperammonemic encephalopathy is an uncommon, potentially lethal adverse effect of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Being one of the most common and versatile chemotherapy agents, it is important to understand this important side effect of 5FU. There is paucity of data in this subject. Here, we report a case of 5FU-induced encephalopathy in a patient on induction chemotherapy for head and neck cancer. In this case report, the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of 5FU-induced encephalopathy is reported.