Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 8, 2025

A Doxorubicin-induced Cardiomyopathy Model in Adult Zebrafish
Published on: June 7, 2018
Pediatric Chemotherapy Drugs Associated With Cardiotoxicity
Gazala Hitawala1, Esha Jain2, Lisett Castellanos3
1Internal Medicine, Jersey City (JC) Medical Center, Orlando, USA.
Abstract:
Pediatric cancers are a common cause of childhood morbidity. As a result, chemotherapeutic regimens have been designed to target childhood cancers. These medications are necessary to treat pediatric cancers, however, oncology management options are accompanied by multiple negative and potentially fatal adverse effects. Although anthracyclines are the most commonly used chemotherapeutic agents associated with cardiotoxicity, we also explore other chemotherapeutic drugs used in children that can potentially affect the heart. Genetic variations resulting in single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) have the propensity to modify the cardiotoxic effects of the chemotherapy drugs. The clinical presentation of the cardiac effects can vary from arrhythmias and heart failure to completely asymptomatic. A range of imaging studies and laboratory investigations can protect the heart from severe outcomes. The physiology of the heart and the effect of drugs in children vary vividly from adults; therefore, it is crucial to study the cardiotoxic effect of chemotherapy drugs in the pediatric population. This review highlights the potential contributing factors for cardiotoxicity in the pediatric population and discusses the identification and management options.
Related Concept Videos
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion
Heart Failure Drugs: Inotropic Agents
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Dopamine Receptor Antagonists
Phenothiazines, such as prochlorperazine...
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Metabolism
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonists
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Distribution

