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The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only. The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) does not endorse the information presented. The content has been gathered in partnership with the MONDO Disease Ontology. Please consult with a healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment.
Print5-fluorouracil (5-FU) poisoning is a rare intoxication caused by the prolonged, low-dose administration of 5-FU, which is the mainstay of both adjuvant and advanced-disease chemotherapy regimens in colon cancer. 5-FU poisoning is characterized by gastrointestinal (nausea, emesis, diarrhea, anorexia, stomatitis) and hematologic (myelosuppression) toxicities as well as mucositis, alopecia and, occasionally, palmar-plantar dysesthesia (more commonly known as hand-foot syndrome). Women have been reported to experience more 5-FU-related toxicity than men.
Orphanet has a summary about this condition that may include information on the diagnosis, care, and treatment as well as other resources. Some of the information and resources are available in languages other than English. The summary may include medical terms, so we encourage you to share and discuss this information with your doctor. Orphanet is the French National Institute for Health and Medical Research and the Health Programme of the European Union.
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