Acute and Long-Term Toxicity of Cyclophosphamide

Cyclophosphamide was used in treating kidney diseases, but it had significant acute and long-term toxicities. Acute side effects included bone marrow toxicity, infections, hemorrhagic cystitis, gastrointestinal issues, and hair loss. Long-term concerns involved increased risks of tumors, particularly bladder carcinoma, lymphomas, skin tumors, myelodysplastic syndrome, and permanent infertility, especially in patients who received transplants. These side effects were often dose-dependent, prompting strategies like dose reduction, intravenous administration, and shorter treatment durations to mitigate risks. Preventive measures included using Mesna for bladder toxicity, sun blockers for skin tumors, and sperm conservation or hormone analogues for infertility. Awareness of increased tumor risk in high-exposure patients could facilitate early detection and treatment.