American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

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Prepare for the ABS QE with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question provides hints and explanations to enhance understanding. Start your journey to becoming a certified surgeon and tackle your exam with confidence!

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Cyclophosphamide is associated with which of the following complications?

SIALH
Acoustic nerve damage
Hemorrhagic cystitis
Peripheral neuropathy

The correct answer is: Hemorrhagic cystitis

Cyclophosphamide is a chemotherapeutic agent that is known to cause a range of side effects due to its cytotoxic properties. One of the most significant complications associated with cyclophosphamide is hemorrhagic cystitis. This occurs as a result of the drug's metabolism, which produces a toxic metabolite called acrolein. Acrolein can irritate the bladder mucosa leading to inflammation, bleeding, and, ultimately, hemorrhagic cystitis. This complication is particularly notable as it can lead to significant morbidity in patients receiving cyclophosphamide treatment. To mitigate this risk, hydration and the use of mesna, a protective agent that binds acrolein, are often employed during therapy. In contrast to hemorrhagic cystitis, the other options presented are either less commonly associated with cyclophosphamide or are related to different mechanisms or types of drugs. Understanding these complications helps healthcare providers monitor and manage patients receiving cyclophosphamide effectively, reducing the risk of severe side effects while maintaining the drug's therapeutic benefits.