Why is it important to avoid extravasation of antineoplastic drugs?

Avoiding extravasation of antineoplastic drugs is crucial because these medications can cause significant tissue irritation and damage when they leak out of the blood vessels and into the surrounding tissue. Antineoplastic agents, which are designed to target and kill cancer cells, often have strong cytotoxic properties, making them inherently harmful to healthy tissues.

When extravasation occurs, the localized exposure to these drugs can result in inflammation, severe pain, ulceration, and even necrosis of the tissue. The potential for long-term damage or scarring is high, which can lead to complications in healing and may necessitate surgical intervention to repair affected areas. Therefore, careful administration and monitoring of antineoplastic drugs are essential to minimize the risk of such adverse effects, reinforcing the importance of proper intravenous techniques and prompt response to any signs of extravasation.