D. Other Side Effects
D.3.
Cardiovascular toxicity (Cardiotoxicity)
Cardiotoxicity is associated with many
anticancer drugs, particularly a very important class of anticancer drugs,
anthracyclines. In fact, their use
in cancer treatment is limited by a cumulative dose-dependent cardiotoxicity.
Studies indicated that, at a cumulative dose of 550 mg/m2, there was
a significant increase in the development of heart failure; the use of smaller
divided doses did decrease the chance of left ventricular ejection fraction.
This cardiotoxicity induced by anthracyclines can cause irreversible heart
failure and even fatality in some cases.
In addition to anthracyclines, many
other anticancer drugs may affect the cardiovascular system. In today’s
oncology, combination therapy is becoming more popular and this could also increase
the chance of cardiotoxicity.
© Jiajiu Shaw, 2020
Disclaimer: This blog is written solely for informational purposes. It does not constitute the practice of any medical, nursing or other medical professional health care advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All contents posted are extracted from the book, "SIDE EFFECTS OF CHEMOTHERAPY AND RADIOTHERAPY", prepared by Dr. Jiajiu Shaw, Dr. Frederick Valeriote, and Dr. Ben Chen.
