Cardiovascular risk assessment and management of patients undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Hematology
• Oncology

Background:

• Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is a life-saving procedure for various hematologic and oncologic conditions.
• Patients undergoing HCT face significant cardiovascular risks due to underlying diseases, conditioning regimens, and transplant-related complications.
• Cardiovascular complications are a leading cause of non-relapse mortality after HCT.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a comprehensive framework for cardiovascular evaluation and management in HCT patients.
• To synthesize current evidence and provide evidence-based recommendations for clinical practice.
• To guide clinicians in identifying, assessing, and managing cardiovascular risks associated with HCT.

Main Methods:

• Extensive literature review of cardiovascular complications in HCT.
• Critical analysis of existing evidence regarding HCT-induced cardiovascular injury.
• Development of a structured algorithm for cardiovascular assessment and management.

Main Results:

• Detailed discussion of the cardiovascular risk profile in HCT recipients.
• Elucidation of potential mechanisms underlying HCT-associated cardiovascular damage.
• Presentation of an actionable algorithm for pre-transplant cardiovascular evaluation and risk stratification.
• Guidance on managing prevalent cardiovascular conditions in the HCT population.

Conclusions:

• A systematic approach to cardiovascular care is crucial for improving outcomes in HCT patients.
• Early identification and proactive management of cardiovascular risks can mitigate serious complications.
• This framework provides essential guidance for optimizing cardiovascular health throughout the HCT journey.