Cardiac Toxicity of Thoracic Radiotherapy: Existing Evidence and Future Directions

J Thorac Oncol. 2021 Feb;16(2):216-227. doi: 10.1016/j.jtho.2020.11.002. Epub 2020 Dec 3.

Abstract

The impact of radiotherapy on the heart has become an area of interest in recent years. Many different cardiac dose-volume constraints have been associated with cardiac toxicity and survival; however, no consistent constraint has been found. Many patients undergoing treatment for lung cancer have risk factors for cardiovascular disease or known cardiac comorbidities; however, there is little evidence on the effects of radiotherapy on the heart in these patients. We aim to provide a summary of the existing literature on cardiac toxicity of lung cancer radiotherapy, propose strategies to avoid and manage cardiac toxicity, and suggest avenues for future research.

Keywords: Cardiac toxicity; Cardio-oncology; Dose-volume; Lung cancer; Radiotherapy.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Cardiotoxicity* / etiology
  • Heart
  • Humans
  • Lung
  • Lung Neoplasms* / radiotherapy
  • Radiotherapy / adverse effects
  • Radiotherapy Dosage
  • Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted