Acute ST-segment elevations following paclitaxel administration for uterine cervical cancer: a case report and literature review

Paclitaxel-induced cardiac ischemia is a rare but life-threatening complication. Although it may be difficult to distinguish from hypersensitivity or infusion reactions, it should not be overlooked. We herein report a rare case of ST-segment elevation following the administration of paclitaxel for uterine cervical cancer and review the literature regarding paclitaxel-induced cardiac ischemia. A 48-year-old woman with uterine cervical cancer with no cardiovascular risk factors was admitted to our hospital for concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) and planned to receive weekly paclitaxel and carboplatin for a total of 5 weeks. Just after the completion of the first cycle of paclitaxel infusion, she presented with diaphoresis and her consciousness level decreased. Electrocardiography showed ST elevation, suggesting acute myocardial infarction. Laboratory testing revealed troponin I positivity. Emergency coronary angiography (CAG) revealed a normal coronary artery, suggesting paclitaxel-induced vasospasm. After CAG, the patient was hemodynamically stable and was returned to the gynecologic unit two days after CAG. CCRT without paclitaxel was continued and the patient was uneventfully discharged from hospital.