An oncologic cardiotoxicity masquerading as ST-elevated myocardial infarction: a case report
Amarpal Karamjit Singh1,2, Rifly Rafiudeen1,2, Chiew Wong1,2
1Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Parkville, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia.
European Heart Journal. Case Reports
|May 25, 2026
Summary
Chemotherapy-induced myopericarditis can mimic heart attacks. Cardiac MRI is crucial for diagnosis, differentiating inflammation from ischemia, and guiding treatment for safe cancer therapy continuation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Fluoropyrimidines (e.g., 5-FU) combined with bevacizumab can cause cardiotoxicity, mimicking acute coronary syndromes.
- This diagnostic uncertainty risks inappropriate patient management.
- Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is vital for differentiating inflammatory myocardial injury from ischemic pathology.
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