Cardiovascular late effects

Dawn Camp-Sorrell1

  • 1Hematology Oncology Associates of Alabama, Sylacauga, Alabama, USA.

Insights

Cancer survivors treated with cardiotoxic chemotherapy or radiation face higher risks of heart problems. Regular cardiac evaluations are crucial during follow-up to detect potential cardiovascular late effects early.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Oncology
  • Cancer Survivorship

Background:

  • Cardiotoxic cancer therapies, including chemotherapy and mediastinal radiation, increase long-term cardiovascular risks for survivors.
  • Cardiovascular late effects represent a significant concern in cancer survivorship care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the importance of cardiac monitoring in cancer survivors.
  • To outline key factors for evaluating cardiac function in follow-up care.

Main Methods:

  • Review of established guidelines and clinical evidence regarding cardiovascular late effects.
  • Identification of risk factors, symptoms, and treatment modalities associated with cardiac complications.

Main Results:

  • Cancer survivors exposed to cardiotoxic treatments are at elevated risk for cardiovascular complications.
  • Cardiac evaluation should be tailored based on individual risk factors, symptoms, and treatment history.

Conclusions:

  • Proactive cardiac surveillance is essential for managing cardiovascular late effects in cancer survivors.
  • Early detection and management of cardiac symptoms can improve long-term outcomes for cancer survivors.

Related Concept Videos

Exercise and Cardiovascular Response01:20

Exercise and Cardiovascular Response

Exercise significantly impacts cardiovascular response, which is crucial for understanding patient health and designing effective treatment plans.
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations01:30

Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a primary health risk worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The condition arises from the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries, resulting in diminished blood supply to the heart muscle.The clinical manifestations of CAD vary widely, from asymptomatic stages to severe, life-threatening conditions. Understanding these manifestations is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.Angina Pectoris: The Warning...
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy01:30

Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, is a progressive myocardial disorder characterized by ventricular chamber dilation and contractile dysfunction.EtiologyVarious factors can cause DCM, including hypertension and heavy alcohol intake, which contribute to the weakening and enlargement of the heart muscle. Viral infections, such as Coxsackievirus B, adenoviruses, and influenza, can lead to DCM by causing inflammation and damage to heart tissue. Certain chemotherapeutic agents, including daunorubicin,...
Cardiovascular Drugs: Classification based on Therapeutic Indications01:18

Cardiovascular Drugs: Classification based on Therapeutic Indications

Cardiovascular diseases, encompassing a range of conditions, can significantly affect the heart's operations and the overall circulatory system. These conditions impair the heart's ability to pump blood, leading to a deficit in oxygen supply to crucial organs. Anomalies in the heart's electrical system, known as arrhythmias, can cause heartbeats to accelerate or slow down. Usually, heart rates increase during physical activity and decrease while resting or sleeping. However, frequent irregular...
Cardiovascular System Abnormal Findings I: Inspection and Palpation01:29

Cardiovascular System Abnormal Findings I: Inspection and Palpation

In a cardiovascular examination, inspection and palpation are crucial for identifying abnormalities.
Abnormal findings observed during an inspection
Imbalances in Cardiac Output01:26

Imbalances in Cardiac Output

The heart's primary function is to pump blood throughout the body, maintaining a balance between blood sent out (cardiac output) and blood returning (venous return). If this balance is disrupted, it can result in congestive heart failure (CHF), a severe condition where the heart becomes an inefficient pump, leading to inadequate blood circulation.
CHF can occur due to the failure of either side of the heart. Left-side failure leads to pulmonary congestion—the right side continues to send blood...