Deep vein and artery thrombosis associated with cetuximab-based chemoradiotherapy

Molecular targeted agents have lower hematological toxicity. However, specific side-effects such as allergic rashes, skin reactions and high cost limit their use. We report a case of 35-year-old male patient with carcinoma of left tonsil treated with concurrent cetuximab and radiotherapy. After four weeks of treatment, the patient developed sudden onset of pain in the left calf region radiating to the left foot. Doppler study of the left lower limb revealed complete thrombosis of superficial femoral, popliteal and proximal tibial arteries and veins and no flow in anterior tibial artery and lower posterior tibial artery. Emergency embolectomy was done. After 48 h of observation, no improvement was noted. A repeat Doppler examination showed similar finding. Ultimately a left lower limb amputation was done. We report simultaneous arterio-venous thrombosis associated with cetuximab-based chemoradiotherapy. Oncologists should be aware of this possible complication to undertake early intervention.