Cardiac side effects of chemotherapy: state of art and strategies for a correct management

Curr Vasc Pharmacol. 2014 Jan;12(1):106-16. doi: 10.2174/157016111201140327163302.

Abstract

In recent years, the development of more effective drugs has provided a better prognosis and an increase in life expectancy for patients at all-stages of cancer. On the other hand, the price for the improving effectiveness of therapies against malignant tumors is the development of severe and potentially life-threatening drug reactions. Among these, cardiac toxic effects have recently gained particular attention. The term cardiotoxicity includes many possible pathological manifestations, but the most frequent is the reduction in cardiac function, potentially leading to heart failure and death. Importantly, the development of cardiac dysfunction may occur immediately after drug administration, or after years. The purpose of this review is to discuss the clinical features of cardiotoxicity, its molecular basis and novel possible strategies to reduce the likelihood of serious cardiac complications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / chemistry
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Electrocardiography
  • Heart Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Heart Diseases / diagnosis
  • Heart Diseases / metabolism
  • Heart Diseases / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Oxidative Stress / drug effects

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents