Cerebellar ataxia is caused by which anticancer drug
**Core Concept**
Cerebellar ataxia is a neurological disorder characterized by a lack of coordination, balance, and speech difficulties. This condition can be caused by various factors, including certain anticancer drugs that affect the cerebellum, a region of the brain responsible for motor control and coordination.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The anticancer drug Cisplatin is known to cause cerebellar ataxia as a side effect. Cisplatin works by cross-linking DNA, which inhibits cancer cell growth. However, it also affects the cerebellum, leading to ataxia. The exact mechanism involves the inhibition of DNA repair enzymes and the subsequent activation of apoptotic pathways in cerebellar neurons.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** Vincristine is an anticancer drug, but it primarily causes peripheral neuropathy, not cerebellar ataxia.
* **Option B:** Etoposide is a topoisomerase inhibitor that can cause myelosuppression and gastrointestinal toxicity, but it is not commonly associated with cerebellar ataxia.
* **Option D:** Bleomycin is a chemotherapeutic agent that can cause pulmonary toxicity, but it is not typically linked to cerebellar ataxia.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When administering Cisplatin, it's essential to monitor patients for signs of cerebellar ataxia, including gait disturbances, nystagmus, and dysarthria. Early recognition and management can help mitigate the severity of this side effect.
**Correct Answer: C. Cisplatin. Cisplatin**