Chemotherapy and Its Side Effects: Chapter 3 - Side Effects of Chemotherapy

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.

Chemotherapy and Its Side Effects: Chapter 3 - Side Effects of Chemotherapy

D. Other Side Effects

The above side effects are directly related to the rapid growth of cells. There are other significant side effects that are not directly related to the fast growing of normal cells. These side effects include liver damage, kidney damage, pain, rash, constipation, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, ototoxicity, electrolyte abnormality, cardiotoxicity, and depression of the immune system. Among them, liver and kidney damages are most critical and are often the sources of other side effects. Some of these side effects are described below.

© 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.