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Anti-VEGF-Induced Hypertension: a Review of Pathophysiology and Treatment Options
Bryan J Brinda1, Federico Viganego2, Teresa Vo3
1Department of Pharmacy, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, 12902 USF Magnolia Drive, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA. bryan.brinda@moffitt.org.
Opinion Statement:
Abnormal intracellular signaling has been implicated in the development of many different types of cancer. Therapies targeting these abnormal pathways have revolutionized the treatment of many malignancies leading to significantly improved outcomes and survival. Despite these advances, cardiovascular toxicity is a frequently reported complication. Angiogenesis is the physiologic process of new blood vessel development and can be dysregulated in some forms of cancer. VEGF inhibitors are the pharmaceutical agents targeting this pathway; however hypertension is a commonly observed toxicity which can have significant adverse consequences including premature cessation of therapy if adequate blood pressure control cannot be achieved. This review will provide a comprehensive discussion about hypertension due to VEGF inhibition, focusing on pathophysiology, frequently used agents, and available treatment options for VEGF-induced hypertension.
Insights
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) inhibitors improve cancer treatment but can cause hypertension. Managing this side effect is crucial for patients undergoing anti-angiogenic therapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Cancer therapies targeting intracellular signaling pathways have improved outcomes.
- Cardiovascular toxicity, including hypertension, is a significant complication of these treatments.
- Angiogenesis, crucial in cancer, is targeted by Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) inhibitors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review hypertension induced by VEGF inhibitors.
- To discuss the pathophysiology, common agents, and treatment strategies for VEGF-induced hypertension.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on VEGF inhibitors and hypertension.
- Analysis of the mechanisms underlying VEGF inhibitor-induced hypertension.
- Synthesis of current treatment guidelines and options.
Main Results:
- VEGF inhibitors can lead to hypertension, a common and potentially serious adverse event.
- Hypertension may necessitate premature treatment cessation if not adequately controlled.
- Understanding the pathophysiology is key to managing this toxicity.
Conclusions:
- VEGF inhibitors offer therapeutic benefits in oncology but pose cardiovascular risks.
- Effective blood pressure management is essential for patients receiving VEGF inhibitors.
- Further research into managing VEGF-induced hypertension is warranted.
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