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Long-Term Radiotherapy-Induced Cardiac Complications: A Case Report.
Néstor Báez-Ferrer1, María Manuela Izquierdo-Gómez1, Carima Beyello-Belkasem1
1Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of the Canary Islands, Tenerife, Spain.
The American Journal of Case Reports
|August 12, 2019
Summary
Radiotherapy, especially thoracic, can cause serious heart disease. This case highlights long-term cardiovascular complications, including aortic stenosis and coronary disease, after cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Radiotherapy
Background:
- Advances in cancer treatment improve survival but cause significant short- and long-term side effects.
- Cardiovascular disease is a major concern following anti-neoplastic therapy, particularly radiotherapy.
- Radiotherapy-induced heart disease is a critical factor in long-term morbidity and mortality, especially after secondary cancers.
Observation:
- A 48-year-old male with a history of mediastinal Hodgkin lymphoma treated with radiotherapy 20 years prior presented with dyspnea and chest pain.
- The patient was diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis and coronary disease.
- He had a history of syncope requiring pacemaker implantation, indicative of cardiac complications.
Findings:
- The patient's cardiovascular complications, including aortic stenosis and coronary disease, are strongly suspected to be linked to his past radiotherapy treatment.
- Thoracic radiotherapy can lead to a spectrum of cardiac issues, underscoring the importance of long-term cardiac surveillance.
- This case illustrates the significant and potentially delayed cardiac impact of radiotherapy.
Implications:
- Understanding radiotherapy-induced heart disease is crucial for managing cancer survivors.
- This case emphasizes the need for vigilant cardiovascular monitoring in patients with a history of thoracic radiotherapy.
- Further research into mitigating cardiac risks associated with radiotherapy is essential for improving patient outcomes.
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