Cisplatin

Also known as:  Platinol

Cisplatin is a type of Anti-Cancer Pharmaceutical Drug.  It is an inorganic metal complex based on Platinum.

Immune System

 Cisplatin is utilized in the treatment of several types of Cancer including:

 Cancer - Bladder (advanced stage refractory)

 Cancer - Ovaries (advanced stage refractory)

 Squamous Cell Carcinoma (refractory of the head and neck)

 Cancer - Testicles

 Cisplatin possesses biochemical properties that are similar to those of Bifunctional Alkylating Agents.

 Cisplatin inhibits the biosynthesis of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) by producing intrastrand and interstrand Cross-Linking of DNA that “bind” DNA.

 To a lesser extent, Cisplatin inhibits the synthesis of Proteins and Ribonucleic Acid (RNA).

Cardiovascular System

 Cisplatin may cause Anemia in many persons.

 Cisplatin may temporarily suppress the production of Platelets (i.e. it causes temporary Thrombocytopenia).

Digestive System

 Cisplatin may cause severe Vomiting in many (almost all) persons.

Ears/Hearing

 Cisplatin may cause dysfunction of the Acoustic Nerve in some persons.

 Cisplatin may cause partial Deafness.

 Cisplatin may cause Sensorineural Hearing Loss in some (up to 30% of) patients:

 Sensorineural Hearing Loss caused by Cisplatin can be unilateral or bilateral.  The frequency and severity of Cisplatin-induced Sensorineural Hearing Loss increases with repeated doses of Cisplatin and may not be reversible.  The range affected is primarily 4,000 Hz - 8,000 Hz.

 Cisplatin may cause Tinnitus in some (up to 30% of) patients.

Excretory System

 Cisplatin may damage the Kidneys (reflected by a decline in glomerular filtration rate and a rise in serum Creatinine levels).