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Radiation Therapy-Induced Valvular Heart Disease: A Comprehensive Review with a Multi-Modality Imaging and
Deya A Alkhatib1, Emmanuel Akintoye2, Mohamad Khattab3
1Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.
Cardiology Clinics
|August 10, 2026
Summary
Cancer survivors face long-term risks of valvular heart disease (VHD) after radiation therapy. This review details VHD causes, diagnosis, and treatment, stressing surveillance for survivors.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- Cancer treatments, particularly radiation therapy, have long-term cardiovascular side effects.
- Valvular heart disease (VHD) is a significant concern for cancer survivors.
- Advancements in radiation therapy (RT) aim to minimize cardiac damage, but VHD remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the pathophysiology, prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment of VHD in cancer patients.
- To focus on radiation therapy-related VHD.
- To highlight the importance of active surveillance and multidisciplinary care for VHD in cancer survivors.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review.
- Analysis of studies on VHD in cancer patients, with emphasis on radiation exposure.
- Examination of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for VHD.
Main Results:
- The incidence of VHD increases over time following radiation exposure.
- Valve regurgitation is more common than stenosis.
- The aortic valve is the most frequently affected valve.
Conclusions:
- Radiation therapy can lead to long-term valvular heart disease in cancer survivors.
- Active surveillance and a multidisciplinary approach are crucial for managing VHD.
- Understanding VHD pathophysiology and diagnosis is essential for improved patient outcomes.