Cardiotoxicity of Cancer Therapies

Abstract

Cardiotoxicity is a known complication of many cancer therapies. While the cardiotoxicity of established agents such as anthracyclines, antimetabolites, and alkylating agents is well known, it is important to realize that newer anticancer therapies such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, angiogenesis inhibitors, and checkpoint inhibitors are also associated with significant adverse cardiovascular effects. Echocardiography, magnetic resonance imaging, and radionuclide imaging have been used to identify these complications early and prevent further consequences. We will discuss the different classes of cancer therapeutic agents that cause cardiotoxicity, the mechanisms that lead to these effects, and strategies that can be used to prevent the cardiac morbidity and mortality associated with their use.