AOCNP Cancer Pharmacology and Chemotherapy

Question 1

Which class of chemotherapy agents acts by cross-linking DNA strands to prevent replication?

Accepted Answer

Alkylating agents

Answer

Alkylating agents (e.g., cyclophosphamide, cisplatin) form covalent cross-links within and between DNA strands, blocking replication and transcription.

Question 2

Cardiotoxicity is the major dose-limiting toxicity associated with which chemotherapy class?

Accepted Answer

Anthracyclines

Answer

Anthracyclines (doxorubicin, epirubicin) cause cumulative, dose-dependent cardiomyopathy through free-radical-mediated myocyte damage.

Question 3

The mechanism of action of methotrexate is:

Accepted Answer

Inhibition of dihydrofolate reductase, depleting folate required for DNA synthesis

Answer

Methotrexate inhibits DHFR, preventing reduction of folate to its active form and thereby blocking thymidylate and purine synthesis.

Question 4

Which taxane is approved for albumin-bound nanoparticle formulation to reduce hypersensitivity and improve delivery?

Accepted Answer

Nab-paclitaxel (Abraxane)

Answer

Nab-paclitaxel encapsulates paclitaxel in albumin nanoparticles, eliminating the Cremophor solvent that causes hypersensitivity reactions.

Question 5

Peripheral neuropathy is the primary dose-limiting toxicity of which agent?

Accepted Answer

Oxaliplatin

Answer

Oxaliplatin causes acute cold-triggered sensory neuropathy and cumulative sensory peripheral neuropathy that limits the total dose deliverable.

AOCNP - Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner Practice Test

AOCNP - Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner Practice Test

AOCNP Cancer Pharmacology and Chemotherapy