**Core Concept**
PAN (Painful Athetosis Neuropathy) is a rare neurological disorder characterized by degeneration of the peripheral nerves, leading to severe pain and motor dysfunction. The underlying pathophysiology involves damage to the nerve axons and loss of myelin sheath, disrupting normal nerve conduction.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
PAN is primarily associated with the use of certain antineoplastic agents, such as cisplatin and paclitaxel, which induce axonal degeneration and demyelination. The exact mechanism involves disruption of microtubule dynamics, leading to axonal transport failure and subsequent nerve damage. This is mediated by the binding of these agents to tubulin and microtubules, disrupting the normal dynamics of microtubule polymerization and depolymerization.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not mention the primary association of PAN with antineoplastic agents, which is a well-established clinical correlation.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it does not specify the underlying pathophysiological mechanism of PAN, which involves axonal degeneration and demyelination.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that PAN is a dose-dependent adverse effect of certain antineoplastic agents, and the risk of developing PAN increases with higher cumulative doses of these medications.
**Correct Answer:** C.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.