Etoposide

Definition

Etoposide is a chemotherapeutic agent used primarily to treat cancer by inhibiting the enzyme topoisomerase II, which leads to DNA breakage and apoptosis of cancer cells. It can impact the circulatory and lymphatic systems due to its systemic effects and potential for causing secondary infections.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Etoposide targets rapidly dividing cells, making it effective against various cancers but also affecting bone marrow function.
2. By inhibiting topoisomerase II, etoposide causes DNA strand breaks, leading to cell death.
3. Patients treated with etoposide are at increased risk for infections, including viral infections of the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
4. Common side effects include immunosuppression, which can predispose patients to opportunistic viral infections.
5. Etoposide is often administered intravenously but can also be taken orally in some cases.

Review Questions

• What enzyme does etoposide inhibit to exert its chemotherapeutic effects?
• Why are patients undergoing etoposide treatment at a higher risk for viral infections?
• How does etoposide affect the circulatory and lymphatic systems?

Related terms

Topoisomerase II: An enzyme that helps manage DNA topology during replication; its inhibition by etoposide leads to DNA strand breaks.

Immunosuppression: A reduction in the efficacy of the immune system, often a side effect of chemotherapy like etoposide.

Bone Marrow Suppression: A decrease in bone marrow activity resulting in fewer blood cells being produced; common in patients treated with chemotherapeutic agents such as etoposide.