Cisplatin is a strong chemotherapy agent used to treat a variety of cancers, including sarcoma, lymphoma and ovarian cancer. It was discovered in the mid-19th century but until the early 1970s was not used as a chemotherapeutic drug. Cisplatin works by forming a platinum complex within the cell, which interferes with DNA and causes cell death, according to Cisplatin.org. Cisplatin is commonly given with other chemotherapy drugs.
Immune Destruction
Cisplatin was developed to destroy human cells, and good cells as well as tumor cells are destroyed. Women using cisplatin are likely to experience an impaired immune system as an after effect. According to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health, cisplatin can affect the bone marrow where blood cells are made. Destruction of bone marrow cells means a decrease in all blood cell types, including red cells, white blood cells and platelets. A severe decrease in white blood cells puts the woman at risk for infection. Women with severe neutropenia, severe loss of white blood cells, may need to be hospitalized. Women with low white blood cell counts are susceptible to opportunistic infections or infections that need impaired immune systems to grow.
Mucosal Destruction
Cisplatin, an alyklating agent, is known to destroy certain cell lines that divide rapidly, such as mucosal cells. Oral canker sores and inflammation and bleeding of the gums can occur. Destruction of the lining of the gastrointestinal tract can create copious bloody diarrhea. Because the mucosa is the sight for absorption of nutrients, malnutrition and weight loss can be severe in women on cisplatin therapy.
Kidney Failure
Cisplatin can cause kidney failure as an after effect in women. The effect of cisplatin on the kidneys is cumulative, which means the more drug that is given, the more likely damage will occur. Symptoms of kidney damage are bloody urination, painful urination, pain around the kidneys and an elevated creatinine blood test.
Nerve Damage
Cisplatin can cause neuropathy in the hands and feet. This happens because cisplatin is toxic to the nerves, particularly the smaller nerves of the hands and feet. According to Chemocare.com, women with diabetes, a history of alcoholism, malnutrition or previous chemotherapy are more susceptible to neurotoxicity.
