# ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Caused by 5-Fluorouracil-Related Cardiotoxicity

## TL;DR

A 72-year-old man experienced a heart attack due to 5-fluorouracil chemotherapy, highlighting the rare but serious heart-related side effects of this cancer treatment.

## Contribution

This case report adds to the understanding of 5-FU-induced cardiotoxicity by documenting a rare instance of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

## Key findings

- 5-FU can cause coronary vasospasm leading to myocardial infarction.
- Early recognition and discontinuation of 5-FU are critical in managing cardiotoxicity.
- Cardiovascular monitoring is essential for patients receiving 5-FU chemotherapy.

## Abstract

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) and its prodrug, capecitabine, are commonly used chemotherapeutic agents for solid tumor management. While these agents can present with adverse side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and myelosuppression, they can also, less commonly, cause cardiovascular toxicity. This toxicity may manifest as cardiac arrhythmias, myocarditis, heart failure, myocardial infarction, and even death. The management of 5-FU-related cardiotoxicity includes early recognition of symptom manifestation so that medication can be discontinued promptly and symptoms can be addressed appropriately. Here, we describe the case of a 72-year-old male who developed coronary vasospasm and ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction shortly after the initiation of chemotherapy with 5-FU.