Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
5-fluorouracil poisoning effects and treatment in dogs
By Sayre, Rebecca S et al.·Published in Journal of veterinary emergency and critical care (San Antonio, Tex. : 2001)·2012·College of Veterinary Medicine, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Accidental and experimentally induced 5-fluorouracil toxicity in dogs.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A dog that accidentally ingested a product containing 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) can experience serious symptoms affecting the nervous system, stomach, and lungs. Treatment involves immediate decontamination and supportive care, focusing on controlling seizures and managing severe stomach issues. The outcome largely depends on how much 5-FU the dog consumed; even small amounts can be dangerous, and higher doses can be fatal. Quick veterinary intervention is crucial for the best chance of recovery.
People also search for: dog 5-fluorouracil poisoning · dog seizure treatment · symptoms of dog stomach problems · what to do if my dog ate poison
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To summarize the literature involving 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) toxicosis in dogs. ETIOLOGY: 5-Fluorouracil's mechanism of action revolves around the metabolism of 5-FU into fluorouridine triphosphate which then interferes with RNA synthesis and function as well as the inhibition of thymidylate synthase which ultimately impairs DNA stability. Toxicity of 5-FU is the most pronounced on rapidly dividing cells. Toxicity manifests itself mainly in the neurologic, gastrointestinal, respiratory, or hematopoietic systems. DIAGNOSIS: History of accidental exposure to 5-FU-containing products. THERAPY: Therapy for 5-FU toxicosis involves typical decontamination procedures and symptomatic therapy for the subsequent toxicity. Seizure control and treatment of the severe gastrointestinal signs that follow are the primary goals in the acute setting. As the disease progresses, management of the sequelae to bone marrow suppression and pulmonary complications are essential. PROGNOSIS: The prognosis for dogs with ingestion of 5-FU is dependent on the amount consumed, with severe intoxication carrying a poor prognosis. Toxic doses can be as little as 5 mg/kg, and doses ≥40 mg/kg are reported to be uniformly fatal.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22817133/