CHEMOTHERAPY ACCIDENTS INVOLVING THE UPPE R-LIMB

Subcutaneous extravation of antimitotic agents in the upper limb is a rare complication of chemotherapy. The functional integrity of the lim b can be compromised due to severe skin damage. Extensive soft tissue necrosis is difficult to manage and cannot always be repaired without sequellae. Based on an analysis of a series of patients and a review o f the literature, we report the main pathophysiological features and c linical signs of such accidents as well as the still debated therapeut ic management. Two points are essential: the emergency situation creat ed by these accidents requiring adequate and rapid treatment despite t he apparently benign appearance of the extravation and imperative prev ention which is the main therapeutic tool.