Doxorubicin hydrochloride (Adriamycin) cardiotoxicity evaluated by sequential radionuclide angiocardiography

A prospective study was carried out to evaluate the role of radionuclide angiocardiography (CEF) in accessing subclinical cardiotoxicity secondary to Adriamycin (doxorubicin) therapy in 73 women with gynecologic malignancies. Based on the findings of this study, the authors conclude that all patients should have an initial CEF before Adriamycin therapy. In patients with an initial CEF of greater than or equal to 55, frequent determinations are not necessary unless there is a significant decrease from the initial CEF. Patients with low normal initial CEF or significant difference between the initial CEF and minimum CEF should have CEF studies performed at more frequent intervals. Patients who develop below normal CEF should have Adriamycin withheld and CEF should be repeated at more frequent intervals. If the CEF returns to normal Adriamycin therapy can be reinstated. Patients requiring continuation of Adriamycin past 550 mg/m2, can safely do so as long as the CEF values remain normal.