Chemotherapy and Cardiotoxicity in Hematologic Malignancies

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Oncology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Antineoplastic agents pose a growing risk of cardiotoxicity in patients with hematologic malignancies.
• Cardiotoxicity incidence is increasing with advancements in antineoplastic therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review literature on cardiotoxicity associated with main antineoplastic agents used in hematologic malignancies.
• To highlight the need for early identification of patients at risk for cardiotoxicity.

Main Methods:

• Literature analysis of existing studies on cardiotoxicity from hematologic malignancy treatments.
• Evaluation of cardiotoxicity likelihood related to key antineoplastic agents.

Main Results:

• Conventional echocardiography (e.g., LVEF) allows late diagnosis of cardiac dysfunction.
• Speckle tracking echocardiography shows potential for earlier detection of subclinical left ventricular dysfunction (LVD).
• Discovery of novel biomarkers is a priority for high-risk patient identification.

Conclusions:

• Cardiotoxicity results from multiple factors, often with an asymptomatic preceding phase.
• Early detection and treatment during the asymptomatic phase are vital for cardiovascular safety.
• Delayed or absent treatment increases the risk of future cardiac events.