Related Experiment Videos
Early cardiac changes related to radiation therapy
The American Journal of Cardiology
|December 1, 1985
Summary
Breast cancer radiation therapy can cause temporary, mild decreases in left ventricular (LV) function. These cardiac changes, including reduced LV shortening and slight pericardial effusion, typically resolve within six months post-treatment.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Breast cancer survivors often undergo radiation therapy.
- Cardiac complications are a concern following radiation treatment.
- Assessing early cardiac changes is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the incidence and severity of cardiac changes after radiation therapy for breast cancer.
- To investigate the transient effects of radiation on left ventricular (LV) function.
- To monitor for pericardial effusion post-radiation.
Main Methods:
- Serial echocardiography and systolic time interval measurements were performed.
- 21 women without pre-existing heart disease were studied.
- Measurements were taken before and up to 6 months after radiation therapy.
Main Results:
- A significant decrease in LV fractional shortening and systolic blood pressure/end-systolic diameter ratio was observed.
- Mitral E point-septal separation increased, indicating diastolic dysfunction.
- A transient increase in the preejection period/LV ejection time ratio was noted, alongside a 33% incidence of slight pericardial effusion.
Conclusions:
- Conventional radiation therapy induces an acute, transient, and usually asymptomatic decline in LV function.
- Cardiac function generally normalizes within six months post-therapy.
- Slight pericardial effusion is a potential finding in one-third of patients up to six months after treatment.