EGFR-TKIs - induced cardiotoxicity in NSCLC: incidence, evaluation, and monitoring

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cardiology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Targeted drug therapy has revolutionized advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment.
• Cardiotoxicity from targeted therapies is a significant concern, impacting prognosis and survival.
• Cardiovascular diseases are the second leading cause of death in cancer patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss cardiotoxic side effects of novel targeted drugs, specifically epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors.
• To summarize mechanisms of adverse cardiovascular reactions associated with these therapies.
• To provide recommendations for cardiac management in advanced NSCLC patients undergoing targeted therapy.

Main Methods:

• Review of cardiotoxic side effects associated with targeted therapies for NSCLC.
• Discussion of mechanisms underlying cardiovascular adverse events.
• Summary of monitoring strategies including electrocardiogram, cardiac imaging, and biomarkers.

Main Results:

• Identified potential cardiotoxic effects including thromboembolic events, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, arrhythmia, and hypertension.
• Mechanisms of these adverse cardiovascular reactions were summarized.
• Recommendations for clinical management and monitoring were proposed.

Conclusions:

• Early identification and management of cardiotoxicity are vital for patients with advanced NSCLC receiving targeted therapy.
• Clinicians must balance the benefits of targeted therapy against the risks of drug-induced cardiotoxicity.
• Regular monitoring and risk factor management are essential for optimizing treatment outcomes and patient survival.