Cardiovascular sequelae of radiation therapy

Clin Res Cardiol. 2014 Dec;103(12):955-67. doi: 10.1007/s00392-014-0718-y. Epub 2014 May 7.

Abstract

Radiotherapy (RT) is one of the main therapeutic options for malignancy treatment; nevertheless, RT is not free from side effects, including an increased risk for secondary neoplasms and other organs injury. Cardiovascular complications are the second most frequent fatal post-RT sequelae, which physicians should be aware of and ready to diagnose early and cure. This review therefore aims to examine epidemiology, pathogenesis and clinical dose-correlated manifestations of RT-induced cardiovascular disease. Future perspectives on screening, prevention and treatment are also provided.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cardiovascular Diseases / epidemiology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / etiology*
  • Cardiovascular System / radiation effects*
  • Global Health
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Radiation Injuries / complications
  • Radiation Injuries / epidemiology*