Muscle Cramps and Low Calcium Levels in Patients Taking Imatinib
Author Information
Author(s): M. Zekri, H. Robinson, Martin J. Woll, Penella J. Woll
Primary Institution: Weston Park Hospital, University of Sheffield
Hypothesis
Imatinib treatment is associated with relative hypocalcaemia that can precipitate neuromuscular symptoms in some patients.
Conclusion
Imatinib treatment of GIST is associated with reduction in serum calcium which may explain the development of neuromuscular symptoms.
Supporting Evidence
- Imatinib treatment causes muscle cramps in up to 40% of patients.
- Two patients in the study reported muscle cramps, which is 12% of the sample.
- Adjusted serum calcium levels dropped significantly during the first 6 months of treatment.
Takeaway
Some patients taking a cancer drug called imatinib can get muscle cramps because their calcium levels drop too low.
Methodology
Reviewed medical records of 17 patients treated with imatinib for GIST and recorded serum calcium levels.
Limitations
Magnesium levels had not been consistently assessed.
Participant Demographics
Median age 60, 7 males and 10 females.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.025
Statistical Significance
p = 0.025
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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