Cytosar (cytarabine) can potentially cause which kind of changes in a patient?

Cytosar (cytarabine) is a chemotherapy medication primarily used to treat certain types of leukemia and lymphoma. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting DNA synthesis, which can lead to various side effects due to its impact on rapidly dividing cells, including those in the central nervous system (CNS).

The correct answer highlights the potential for CNS and vision changes, which can occur as a result of cytarabine treatment. These neurological effects may manifest as confusion, tremors, or vision disturbances, often referred to as cerebellar toxicity. This phenomenon emphasizes the need for close monitoring of patients receiving cytarabine, especially regarding neurological symptoms.

While the other potential effects of chemotherapy may include gastrointestinal distress or dermatological reactions, cytarabine is particularly notable for its CNS implications, which sets it apart from other chemotherapy agents in terms of adverse effects that specifically target the nervous system. Cardiac arrhythmias are less commonly associated with cytarabine, making the changes in the CNS and vision the more significant concern for patients receiving this medication.