Radiation therapy-induced cardiac injury

Radiation therapy is currently standard treatment for a number of malignancies, including Hodgkin's disease. With the advent of techniques (e.g., subcarinal blocks) that limit the dose of radiation to which the heart is exposed, the incidence of radiation- induced heart disease can be minimized. However, a small percentage of patients will eventually suffer iatrogenic effects. Most commonly seen is pericardial disease, but valvular, conduction system, and coronary artery disease are also seen. Further, because these patients are now surviving longer after therapy, those effects with a longer period may be seen with increasing frequency.