Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor-associated aortitis in cancer: A systematic literature review
Hideko Hoshina, Hiroyuki Takei
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Aortitis following granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) administration has been reported in 0.3-0.47% of cases. To evaluate the characteristics of G-CSF-associated aortitis, we systematically reviewed the literature. METHODS: We searched PubMed and found 49 cases of G-CSF-associated aortitis and cancer comorbidities and analyzed their characteristics and treatments. RESULTS: Since 2004, cases of G-CSF-associated aortitis have been increasing, particularly in Asia (75.5%). The mean age was 60.1 years; 79.6% of patients were 50 years and older; and most patients were females (91.8%). All patients underwent chemotherapy (taxane, 51.0%). The most frequent symptom was fever, which occurred within 10 days (61.2%) of G-CSF administration, similar to that in febrile neutropenia. The period to remission was within 14 days in 44.9% of cases. Steroids were administered to 59.2% of patients; however, treatment efficacy was not significant. No patients died. CONCLUSIONS: High levels of inflammatory cytokines might induce aortitis; however, further studies are warranted.