Retrospective Analysis of Ifosfamide Encephalopathy in Patients with Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcomas

ABSTRACT Background Ifosfamide, an alkylating agent, is one of the pivotal drugs used to treat bone and soft tissue sarcomas. Ifosfamide encephalopathy is a central nervous system toxicity that develops in patients treated with ifosfamide. This study was conducted to examine incidence, severity and treatments for ifosfamide encephalopathy. Methods The files of 22 patients treated with ifosfamide-containing regimens were studied retrospectively at our department. Results Ifosfamide encephalopathy developed in 3 of 22 patients (13.6%). These three cases were considered as grade 3 nervous system disorders (NCI-CTC, v4.0). Akathisia, agitation and confusion were observed. The infusion of ifosfamide was not stopped in any of these patients. Two patients were treated with biperdin, which is approved as an anti-parkinsonism drug, and recovered completely within 24 h. Counclusions These results suggested that biperdin would be effective for ifosfamide encephalopathy.