USMLE STEP 3 MCQ 41:Secondary malignancy is a known side effect of several cytotoxic drugs
on Saturday, February 5, 2011
Question: Secondary malignancy is a known side effect of several cytotoxic drugs. Which of the following cytotoxic drugs is most likely to lead to the acute nonlymphoblastic leukaemia (ANLL) ? a) melphalan b) 5-fluorouracil c) taxoids d) cyclopentenyl cytosine e) trastuzumab Correct Answer: A Explanation: All alkylating agents (particularly melphalan) have been associated with both myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute nonlymphoblastic leukaemia (ANLL). MDS is usually characterised by cytopenias and occurs before acute leukaemia develops. The median time from starting chemotherapy to overt leukaemia is 3-4 years. Cytogenetic abnormalities occur in 90% (especially chromosomes 5 and 7). Therapy for ANLL is usually unsuccessful.
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Labels: USMLE step 03, USMLE STEP 3 ANSWERS