Cardiomyopathy Associated With Cancer Therapy

- Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among cancer survivors.
- Use of novel noninvasive imaging modalities and blood-based biomarkers may allow for the early detection of subclinical cardiotoxicity.
- The efficacy of cardioprotective medications (eg, beta-blockers or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors) to prevent chemotherapy-associated cardiomyopathy is currently under investigation.
- Close coordination between cardiologists and oncologists is needed to balance the benefit of cancer therapy with any potential adverse cardiac effects.

Chemotherapy-associated cardiomyopathy is a well known cardiotoxicity of contemporary cancer treatment and a cause of increasing concern for both cardiologists and oncologists. As cancer outcomes improve, cardiovascular disease has become a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among cancer survivors. Asymptomatic or symptomatic left ventricular systolic dysfunction in the setting of cardiotoxic chemotherapy is an important entity to recognize. Early diagnosis of cardiac injury through the use of novel blood-based biomarkers or noninvasive imaging modalities may allow for the initiation of cardioprotective medications or modification of chemotherapy regimen to minimize or prevent further damage. Several clinical trials are currently underway to determine the efficacy of cardioprotective medications for the prevention of chemotherapy-associated cardiomyopathy. Implementing a strategy that includes both early detection and prevention of cardiotoxicity will likely have a significant impact on the overall prognosis of cancer survivors. Continued coordination of care between cardiologists and oncologists remains critical to maximizing the oncologic benefit of cancer therapy while minimizing any early or late cardiovascular effects.