Which adverse effect is commonly associated with alkylating chemotherapy agents?

• A. Myelosuppression
• B. Ototoxicity
• C. Peripheral neuropathy
• D. Hypertension

Answer: (A)

Alkylating agents damage DNA in rapidly dividing cells by forming cross-links, which disrupts replication and cell division. This makes the bone marrow especially vulnerable, so myelosuppression is the most common and dose-limiting adverse effect. You’ll often see decreases in white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets, leading to infection risk, fatigue, anemia, and bleeding tendencies.

Ototoxicity is more typical with platinum-based drugs like cisplatin. Peripheral neuropathy is also commonly linked to platinum agents or certain other classes (like vinca alkaloids). Hypertension isn’t a hallmark toxicity of alkylating agents.