Conclusion
Chemotherapy-related cardiotoxicity in the form of HF or LVSD is a serious ‘off-target’ side effect of several important chemotherapeutic agents. At present monitoring of cardiac function and intervention in the presence of deterioration is the mainstay of management, but it is widely acknowledged that earlier detection and intervention is required to improve longer-term prognosis. Advanced imaging techniques and the use of cardiac specific biomarkers may herald significant changes in our management of this condition. It is inevitable, however, that with continued advances in the field of oncology, the incidence of ‘off-target’ cardiac side effects will likely increase. Cross-specialty collaboration will undoubtedly be the key to ensuring the best care for cancer patients.
The research was supported by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Clinical Research Facility at Guy’s & St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre based at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and King’s College London. The views expressed are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the NHS, the NIHR or the Department of Health.