Multigated acquisition scan (MUGA) : This test evaluates the function of your heart’s ventricles.You may walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike while connected to a machine that measures your heart rate and blood pressure. Cardiac stress test : This test measures how your heart responds to intense activity.It uses magnets, radio waves and a special computer to create detailed images of your heart’s structures and to evaluate how blood flows through your heart. Cardiac MRI : Some experts consider cardiac MRI the gold standard for detecting cardiotoxicity.Echocardiograms use electrodes and ultrasounds to check your heartbeat and view blood flow through your heart. Echocardiogram : This is the most common imaging tool in cardiotoxicity diagnosis.They use certain tests to measure the heart’s pumping function and valve function, including: LVEF measures how much blood pumps out of your lower left heart chamber (left ventricle) each time your heart contracts. Healthcare providers may diagnose cardiotoxicity by measuring the pumping function of your heart using left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and evaluating the function of your heart valves. Thickening of the heart’s lining ( constrictive pericarditis). Heart attacks (myocardial infarctions).How does cardiotoxicity affect my body?Ĭardiotoxicity may cause several heart problems, including: But, some groups estimate up to 20% of this population may develop heart problems, with up to 7% to 10% having cardiomyopathy or heart failure. It’s difficult to determine the exact rate of cardiotoxicity in adults who had cancer treatment as an adult. It’s also somewhat common in adults who had cancer treatment as a child. It is more likely in those who have taken specific drugs or had radiation therapy to the chest. Who does cardiotoxicity affect?Ĭardiotoxicity can affect anyone who has had cancer treatment.

In severe cases, it may lead to cardiomyopathy, a heart muscle condition that makes it harder for your heart to pump blood.

Certain types of cancer treatments have a higher risk for cardiotoxicity.Ĭardiotoxicity may make it harder for your heart to pump blood throughout your body as it should. It can develop years after cancer treatment, especially in adults who received cancer treatment during childhood. Cardiotoxicity is heart damage that arises from certain cancer treatments or drugs.

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