Toxicity of the topoisomerase II inhibitors

Abstract

Topoisomerase II inhibitors represent a broad class of antineoplastic agents with a wide spectrum of activity against malignancies. Topoi-somerase II inhibitors include the anthracyclines, mitoxantrone and epipodophyllotoxins. Short-term toxicity includes myelosuppression and gastrointestinal toxicity. Long-term survivors are at risk of cardiac toxicity and secondary leukaemia. This article discusses these toxicities in detail, including administration of these agents to patients with hepatic and/or renal insuffi-ciency, and the need for dose adjustments in selected patient populations.