Cytosine arabinoside, also known as cytarabine or ara-C, is a medication used in chemotherapy to treat various types of cancer. It is a synthetic nucleoside analogue, meaning it is a man-made compound that mimics the structure of natural nucleosides found in DNA.
Cytosine arabinoside is primarily used to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood cells. It works by interfering with the synthesis of DNA in rapidly dividing cancer cells, leading to their destruction. It also inhibits the enzyme DNA polymerase, essential for DNA replication, thus preventing cancer cells from reproducing.
In addition to AML, cytosine arabinoside may be used to treat other types of blood cancer, such as acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Administration of cytosine arabinoside is typically done through injection directly into a vein (intravenous) or through an intrathecal route, which involves injection into the cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the spinal cord and brain. The dosage and duration of treatment are determined by the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health.
As with most chemotherapy medications, cytosine arabinoside can cause various side effects, including nausea, vomiting, bone marrow suppression, reduced blood cell counts, and increased susceptibility to infections. Regular monitoring and supportive care are essential to manage these potential complications.
Overall, cytosine arabinoside plays a crucial role in the treatment of certain types of cancer and is an important tool in the field of chemotherapy.
