What does infiltration refer to in the context of chemotherapy?

Infiltration in the context of chemotherapy specifically refers to the accidental leakage of a non-vesicant or non-irritant solution into the surrounding tissue. This occurs when the intravenous (IV) line becomes dislodged or the vein is punctured, leading to the chemotherapy agent not entering the bloodstream as intended. Instead, it seeps into the surrounding tissue, which may result in local swelling, pain, or discomfort for the patient. It’s important for healthcare professionals to monitor for signs of infiltration to manage it appropriately and ensure patient safety.

While other options discuss different scenarios of chemotherapy administration, they do not accurately define infiltration. For instance, leakage of cytotoxic solutions into systemic circulation is a different concern that pertains to systemic exposure rather than local tissue infiltration. The administration of medication through muscle injection and direct injection of medication into a tumor site both refer to methods of administering treatment rather than addressing the issue of infiltration. Understanding this distinction is crucial for effective management of chemotherapy and preventing complications associated with improper administration.