Neurologic complications of ketoconazole therapy for advanced prostatic cancer.

Ketoconazole, an antifungal agent, has been recently used for the treatment of metastatic (Stage D) prostatic carcinoma. It acts by blocking the synthesis of androgens in the tests and adrenal glands. Its major side effects are gastrointestinal and hepatic. We describe a patient in whom severe mental disturbances developed following ketoconazole treatment. Symptoms improved after withdrawal of the drug.