skip to main content

Chemotherapy Toxicity — SCE Medical Oncology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardSupportive & Palliative OncologyChemotherapy ToxicitySCE Medical Oncology

During FOLFOX-bevacizumab, repeated resting blood pressures are about 175/105 mmHg without symptoms or end-organ features. Baseline pressure was normal. What is the most appropriate next step?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Withhold bevacizumab and treat hypertension; resume once blood pressure is controlled

Explanation lettering: E = shown as A · D = shown as B · A = shown as C · B = shown as D · C = shown as E

B is correct. A repeated pressure of 175/105 mmHg requires prompt treatment and temporary withholding under standard oncology protocols until controlled; the SmPC supports antihypertensive therapy and permanent discontinuation only when medically significant hypertension cannot be adequately controlled or if crisis or encephalopathy occurs. Cetuximab is biomarker- and sidedness-dependent, bevacizumab dose reduction is not the toxicity strategy, and observation alone exposes the patient to vascular and neurological complications. Symptoms or acute end-organ injury would trigger emergency assessment. Once controlled, resumption depends on the treatment protocol, cardiovascular review and continued close monitoring.

Reference: Avastin UK Summary of Product Characteristics: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/3885/smpc