Cytotoxicity

Cytotoxic refers to a substance or process that leads to cell damage or death. The "cyto" prefix refers to poison cells and to "toxic." The term is often used to describe medications that destroy cancer cells by chemotherapy, but it can also be used to describe toxins such as venom. We have cells that are considered cytotoxic within our own immune systems, such as the T-cells that kill bacteria , viruses, and cancer cells. For medical professionals who will be handling cytotoxic medicines or other substances that may cause cell death, the label "cytototoxic" is important, and specific precautions for safety are necessary. Cytotoxicity testing is important for safety, from environmental to medical devices