Chemotherapy Biotherapy Certification ONS Practice Testq

What condition results from myelosuppression caused by chemotherapy?

1. Increased blood flow

2. Reduction in blood cell production

3. Enhanced immune response

4. Improved organ function

The correct answer is: Reduction in blood cell production

Myelosuppression is a condition where the production of blood cells in the bone marrow is decreased. This is a common side effect of chemotherapy, as many chemotherapy drugs target rapidly dividing cells, which include not only cancer cells but also the cells in the bone marrow responsible for producing blood cells. As a result, myelosuppression leads to a reduction in the production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The reduction in red blood cells can lead to anemia, causing fatigue and weakness. A decrease in white blood cells makes patients more susceptible to infections, while a deficiency in platelets can result in issues with blood clotting, leading to easy bruising or bleeding. This multifaceted impact illustrates how myelosuppression directly affects blood cell production and the overall health of the patient undergoing chemotherapy. In contrast, the other options do not align with the consequences of myelosuppression. Increased blood flow, enhanced immune response, and improved organ function are not direct results of reduced blood cell production and do not reflect the clinical reality faced by patients experiencing myelosuppression due to chemotherapy.