Heart Failure in Pediatric Oncologic Disease

Children diagnosed with cancer are now living longer, thanks to advances in treatment. However, though cured of cancer, they are at risk for chronic health conditions. Cardiovascular diseases are among the most common cause of morbidity and mortality after recurrence and secondary malignancies. Cardiotoxicity is associated with certain cancer treatments, such as anthracyclines and radiation, and if left undetected or untreated can lead to heart failure, heart transplant, or death. This chapter will provide the latest evidence on risk factors, preventative strategies, screening, and treatment of cardiotoxicity in childhood cancer survivors. Though advances have been made, particularly in prevention by use of the cardioprotectant dexrazoxane, there is still much to be done to find a balance between oncologic efficacy and cardiotoxic late effects.