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Heart failure associated with sunitinib malate: a multitargeted receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor

Aarif Y Khakoo1, Christos M Kassiotis, Nizar Tannir

  • 1Department of Cardiology, The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA. aykhakoo@mdanderson.org

Cancer
|April 5, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Sunitinib can cause heart failure (HF) in cancer patients, leading to serious health issues. Monitoring cardiac function and controlling blood pressure are crucial for patients receiving sunitinib therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Cardiology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Sunitinib malate is a targeted therapy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma and imatinib-resistant gastrointestinal stromal tumors.
  • This study investigates the cardiac adverse effects of sunitinib in cancer patients.

Observation:

  • A retrospective review identified patients who developed heart failure (HF) after sunitinib treatment.
  • Heart failure occurred in 2.7% of patients, manifesting with significant morbidity and potential mortality.

Findings:

  • Sunitinib-induced heart failure presented early after treatment initiation (mean 22 days).
  • Cardiac function declined, and blood pressure increased, with limited reversibility post-treatment cessation.
  • The toxicity was associated with substantial patient morbidity and mortality.

Implications:

  • Sunitinib-associated heart failure necessitates vigilant cardiac monitoring and aggressive hypertension management.
  • Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms of sunitinib-induced cardiotoxicity for prevention and treatment strategies.

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