BCPS Oncology & Hematology Pharmacotherapy 2

Question 1

Which of the following adverse effects requires close monitoring in patients receiving imatinib for chronic myeloid leukemia?

Accepted Answer

Fluid retention and peripheral edema

Answer

Imatinib commonly causes fluid retention, including peripheral edema and pleural effusions, which can be dose-limiting and require monitoring and management.

Question 2

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) exerts its primary antineoplastic effect by inhibiting which enzyme?

Accepted Answer

Thymidylate synthase

Answer

5-FU is converted to FdUMP, which inhibits thymidylate synthase, blocking the conversion of dUMP to dTMP and halting DNA synthesis.

Question 3

Which intervention is MOST important to prevent cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity?

Accepted Answer

Aggressive IV saline hydration before and after cisplatin infusion

Answer

Aggressive pre- and post-hydration with IV normal saline is the primary and most evidence-based strategy to reduce cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.

Question 4

A patient with active cancer develops a proximal deep vein thrombosis (DVT). According to current ASCO guidelines, which is the preferred anticoagulation strategy?

Accepted Answer

Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) or a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC)

Answer

LMWH or certain DOACs (apixaban, rivaroxaban) are preferred over warfarin for cancer-associated VTE due to superior efficacy and avoidance of variable INR from drug and food interactions.

Question 5

Which of the following is an appropriate indication for erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) in a patient with cancer?

Accepted Answer

Anemia (Hgb ≤10 g/dL) in a patient receiving palliative chemotherapy

Answer

ESAs are appropriate for chemotherapy-induced anemia in the palliative setting; they are not recommended with curative-intent chemotherapy due to evidence of tumor progression and reduced survival.

(BCPS) Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist Practice Test

(BCPS) Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist Practice Test

BCPS Oncology & Hematology Pharmacotherapy 2