Which of the following is a potential reaction to cytarabine?

• A. Hypersensitivity reaction
• B. Chemical conjunctivitis
• C. Mucositis
• D. Jaw pain

Answer: (B)

Cytarabine can irritate the surface of the eyes, so chemical conjunctivitis is a well-known adverse effect, especially with high-dose or intrathecal administration. The conjunctival inflammation leads to redness, burning, tearing, and sometimes blurred vision, reflecting a chemical, not infectious, irritation from the drug. Management emphasizes supportive eye care, such as preservative-free artificial tears and close follow-up if symptoms persist or worsen; sometimes ophthalmology input is needed. While mucositis can occur with cytarabine due to its effects on rapidly dividing mucosal cells, the option describing chemical conjunctivitis directly captures a recognized ocular toxicity associated with this drug. Hypersensitivity reactions are possible but less common, and jaw pain is not a typical cytarabine toxicity.