Folate, folic acid, and chemotherapy-induced toxicities: A systematic literature review

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#adult #child #humans #folic-acid #vitamin-b-complex

Folate, folic acid, and chemotherapy-induced toxicities: A systematic literature review

Zwart et al., 2023 | Crit Rev Oncol Hematol | Systematic Review

Citation

Zwart Nienke R K, Franken Mira D, ... Kok Dieuwertje E. Folate, folic acid, and chemotherapy-induced toxicities: A systematic literature review. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol. 2023-Aug;188:104061. doi:10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104061

Abstract

Folate metabolism is a target for various chemotherapeutic drugs. Folate and its synthetic variant folic acid are B-vitamins. To what extent these vitamins impact treatment tolerance in patients with cancer remains unclear. A systematic literature review was conducted on intake and status of folate and folic acid in relation to chemotherapy-induced toxicities in children and adults with cancer. A total of 6231 publications were identified, of which 40 publications met the inclusion criteria. In 12 out of 22 studies focusing on antifolates, a deficient folate status and lower folate and folic acid intake were associated with a higher risk of toxicities. In 8 out of 14 studies focusing on fluoropyrimidine treatments, a higher folate status and intake were associated with a higher risk of toxicities. These findings might explain interindividual differences in treatment tolerance and highlight the importance of evaluating nutritional status in oncology care.

Key Findings

These findings might explain interindividual differences in treatment tolerance and highlight the importance of evaluating nutritional status in oncology care.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population cancer remains unclear
Sample Size 22
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Folic Acid
  • Vitamin B Complex
  • Nutritional Status
  • Neoplasms
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Dietary Supplements

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Systematic Review, Journal Article
  • Vertical: folate

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09