Induction of hypomagnesemia during amsacrine treatment

Abstract

Serious cardiac arrhythmias and QT interval prolongation have been reported following Amsacrine chemotherapy. The underlying mechanism is unknown. In this study, electrolyte and electrocardiographic parameters were prospectivety studied in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treated with an Amsacrine containing combination chemotherapy regime. Data were collected immediately before and at 20 (+20) and 90 (+90) min after commencement of Amsacrine administration. Sixteen episodes were studied in six consecutive patients over a continuous 9 month period. One patient developed asymptomatic ventricular tachycardia during administration. Results from +20 and +90 min were compared with basel..