Which hematologic toxicity is commonly associated with high-dose chemotherapy?

• A. Neutropenia
• B. Weight gain
• C. Nausea only
• D. Increased appetite

Answer: (A)

High-dose chemotherapy often suppresses the bone marrow, which makes and releases blood cells. Neutrophils, the white blood cells that defend against infection, are especially affected because they come from rapidly dividing marrow cells. When their production drops, neutropenia occurs, creating a high risk of infection and reflecting a key hematologic toxicity of this treatment. The nadir, or lowest neutrophil count, usually appears about 1–2 weeks after chemotherapy, depending on the regimen. While nausea can happen from the gastrointestinal effects of chemotherapy, and weight changes may occur, these are not hematologic toxicities. Neutropenia specifically describes the bone marrow–related suppression most commonly seen with high-dose chemotherapy.