5FU and oxaliplatin-containing chemotherapy in two dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase-deficient patients.

Patients with a germline mutation leading to a deficiency of the dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) enzyme are at risk from developing severe toxicity on the administration of 5FU-containing chemotherapy. We report on the implications of this inborn genetic error in two patients who received 5FU and oxaliplatin. A possible co-medication effect of oxaliplatin is considered, as are the consequences of screening for DPD deficiency.