Chemotherapy-Induced Cardiotoxicity: Pathophysiology and Prevention

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cardiology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Cancer treatments have improved survival rates, leading to more long-term survivors.
• Treatment-related comorbidities, particularly cardiotoxicity, are significant concerns for cancer survivors.
• Cardiotoxicity negatively impacts cardiac prognosis and limits further therapeutic options.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the primary mechanisms of anticancer drug-induced cardiotoxicity.
• To discuss current strategies for preventing and minimizing cardiac side effects from cancer therapies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on anticancer drug cardiotoxicity.
• Analysis of the pathophysiology of chemotherapy-induced cardiac dysfunction.
• Examination of established and emerging strategies for cardiac protection.

Main Results:

• Anticancer drug cardiotoxicity involves complex pathophysiological mechanisms.
• Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing effective interventions.
• Various strategies exist to prevent or mitigate cardiac damage.

Conclusions:

• Managing cardiotoxicity is essential for improving the quality of life for cancer survivors.
• Continued research into drug-induced cardiac dysfunction is needed.
• Multidisciplinary approaches are key to addressing anticancer drug cardiotoxicity.