Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity in breast cancer patients

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity (CIC) is a well-documented side effect of breast cancer treatment. Nearly all chemotherapeutic agents can cause CIC with the highest occurrence found in anthracycline and trastuzumab use. Treatment- and patient-related risk factors contribute to the development of CIC making risk modification an important consideration during breast cancer treatment. Prevention and early detection of cardiotoxicity are key to minimizing permanent and devastating cardiac damage; therefore, early involvement of a cardiologist including periodic cardiac monitoring during and after chemotherapy exposure is recommended.