Arginine Vasopressin and Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea
Author Information
Author(s): C.M. Edwards, J. Carmichael, P.H. Baylis, A.L. Harris
Primary Institution: University Department of Clinical Oncology, Newcastle General Hospital
Hypothesis
Is arginine vasopressin a mediator of chemotherapy-induced emesis?
Conclusion
The study found that plasma arginine vasopressin levels significantly increased in patients who vomited after chemotherapy compared to those who did not.
Supporting Evidence
- Plasma AVP levels were significantly higher in vomiters at 3h and 5h post-chemotherapy.
- One patient showed a 16-fold rise in AVP levels when vomiting compared to when not vomiting.
- Moderate or severe nausea was associated with significant increases in plasma AVP levels.
Takeaway
When people get sick from chemotherapy, their bodies make more of a chemical called arginine vasopressin, which might help us understand why they feel nauseous.
Methodology
Eighteen patients receiving chemotherapy were studied, with blood samples taken before and after treatment to measure plasma AVP levels.
Limitations
The study did not include patients with renal failure or inappropriate ADH secretion, and blood sampling was intermittent.
Participant Demographics
Patients included 6 males and 3 females in the vomiting group, and 7 males and 2 females in the non-vomiting group, with ages ranging from 16 to 61.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website