Cardiotoxicity of BRAF/MEK inhibitors

Area of Science:

• Cardio-oncology
• Molecular oncology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• BRAF and MEK inhibitors have revolutionized cancer treatment, especially for melanoma.
• Cardiovascular toxicities associated with these inhibitors are a growing concern in clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the mechanisms and clinical implications of BRAF and MEK inhibitor-induced cardiotoxicity.
• To provide guidance on risk assessment, surveillance, and management of cardiotoxicity.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing biological rationale, clinical trial data, and observational cohort studies.
• Analysis of reported cardiovascular events, including heart failure, hypertension, thromboembolism, and arrhythmias.
• Development of management algorithms based on current cardio-oncology guidelines.

Main Results:

• Cardiotoxicity manifests as left ventricular dysfunction, heart failure, hypertension, thromboembolism, and arrhythmias.
• Mechanisms are multifactorial, involving on-target and off-target effects on cardiomyocytes and endothelium.
• Risk profiles differ between combination and monotherapy.

Conclusions:

• Proactive understanding, detection, and management of cardiotoxicity are crucial.
• These strategies enable safe administration of BRAF/MEK inhibitor therapy.
• Preserving cardiovascular health is paramount during cancer treatment.