Ifosfamide

Definition

Ifosfamide is a chemotherapy drug used to treat various types of cancer by interfering with the DNA replication process in rapidly dividing cells. It is an alkylating agent that can also suppress immune system activity, impacting infections in the circulatory and lymphatic systems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ifosfamide can cause immunosuppression, increasing susceptibility to viral infections in the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
2. It is metabolized primarily in the liver, where it forms active metabolites that are responsible for its therapeutic effects.
3. Patients undergoing ifosfamide treatment may require monitoring for potential hemorrhagic cystitis, a condition affecting the bladder.
4. The use of ifosfamide can lead to secondary malignancies due to its DNA-damaging properties.
5. Supportive treatments such as Mesna are often co-administered with ifosfamide to mitigate toxic side effects on the urinary system.

Review Questions

• How does ifosfamide increase susceptibility to viral infections in the circulatory and lymphatic systems?
• What is a common supportive treatment used alongside ifosfamide to protect against urinary toxicities?
• Why might patients treated with ifosfamide be at risk for secondary cancers?

Related terms

Chemotherapy:

A type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to destroy or slow down the growth of cancer cells.

Immunosuppression:

A reduction of the efficiency of the immune system's ability to fight infections and other diseases.

Hemorrhagic Cystitis: A condition characterized by bleeding and inflammation of the bladder often associated with certain chemotherapy drugs.