The effect of anthracyclines on myocardial function in 50 long-term survivors of childhood cancer
Date
1998
Authors
Hesseling P.B.
Kalis N.N.
Wessels G.
Van Der Merwe P.-L.
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Abstract
Anthracyclines, which are effective in the treatment of childhood cancer, are known for their cardiotoxicity. In this study, with a mean follow-up of 116 months, the adverse effects of anthracyclines on conduction and myocardial function were evaluated by means of electrocardiography and echocardiography. ECG abnormalities, present in 2 patients, were nonspecific ST-segment and T-wave changes; cardiac function was normal. Echocardiographic abnormalities were present in 1 patient. He had a shortening fraction of less than 25% and presented in cardiac failure. Cardiotoxic effects of anthracyclines used in doses according to standard treatment protocols were minimal in this long-term follow-up study. Routine ECG and echocardiography in asymptomatic patients during long-term follow-up are not indicated when an anthracycline dose of less than 450 mg/m2 has been used and concomitant radiotherapy has not been administered.
Description
Keywords
anthracycline derivative, antineoplastic agent, adolescent, adult, article, cardiotoxicity, child, childhood cancer, clinical article, female, heart failure, heart function, human, male, ST segment, t wave
Citation
Cardiovascular Journal of South Africa
89
1
89
1