Which chemotherapy side effect can lead to an increased risk of infection?

The correct answer is low blood cell counts. Chemotherapy often affects the bone marrow's ability to produce blood cells, specifically white blood cells, which are crucial for the immune system's function. When the levels of white blood cells drop, a condition known as neutropenia occurs, significantly increasing the risk of infections.

Patients with low blood cell counts may experience a weakened immune response, making them more susceptible to pathogens that would typically be managed by a healthy immune system. This decreased ability to fight infections is a critical consideration in the management of patients undergoing chemotherapy, as they may require monitoring and preventive measures to protect against potential infections.

Other side effects, such as hair loss, nausea, and fatigue, while common and challenging, do not directly impact the immune system or the body’s ability to combat infections in the same way that low blood cell counts do.