Master Bleomycin with Picmonic for Medicine

Bleomycin is used in treating testicular cancers, and is typically used in germ-cell tumors. It is typically combined with Etoposide and Cisplatin, as they have complimentary effects on inhibiting cancerous DNA.

Bleomycin is often used as a first-line chemotherapy drug for treating Hodgkin's lymphoma. It is typically used in the ABVD or BEACOPP drug regimens.

Though the exact mechanism of action isn't fully understood, it is hypothesized that this drug chelates metal ions, leading to a pseudoenzyme which converts oxygen to superoxide and hydroxyl free radicals. These then go on to cleave DNA.

The free radicals caused by Bleomycin induce DNA strand breaks. It is also hypothesized that another mechanism of Bleomycin action is that it binds at specific sites on DNA strands and causes incision.

The most severe side effect of this medication is pulmonary fibrosis, which can lead to impared lung function in patients. Furthermore, due to its mechanism of action, it can possibly lead to oxygen toxicity, which may play a role in lung injury.

There are various skin changes that can occur with Bleomycin treatment. These include rash, alopecia, hyperpigmentation and Raynaud's phenomenon. Dermatographism can also be seen, and is described by raised urticaria that occurs when the skin is stroked.

Patients taking Bleomycin can experience uncomfortable mucositis, or inflammation of the mucous membranes, typically in the mouth.