HE INTRODUCTION OF MORE EFfective treatments for childhood cancer has dramatically improved survival rates, implying that childhood cancer survivors comprise a rapidly growing group of young adults. 1,2 Unfortunately, improved prognosis has been accompanied by the occurrence of late, treatment-related complications such as second neoplasms, organ dysfunction, and psychosocial and cognitive problems. 3,4 Late treatment sequelae will increase the incidence of chronic diseases in survivors and ultimately re-For editorial comment see p 2762.

No abstract

Childhood cancer survivors treated with anthracycline chemotherapy or chest radiation are at an increased risk of developing congestive heart failure (CHF). In this population, CHF is well-recognized as a progressive disorder, with a variable period of asymptomatic cardiomyopathy which precedes signs and symptoms. As a result, a number of practice guidelines have been developed to facilitate detection and treatment of asymptomatic cardiomyopathy. These guidelines differ with regards to definitions of at risk populations, surveillance modality and frequency, and recommendations for interventions. These differences may hinder the effective implementation of these recommendations. We report on the results of an international collaboration to harmonize existing cardiomyopathy surveillance recommendations, using an evidence-based approach that relied on standardized definitions for outcomes of interest and transparent presentation of the quality of the evidence. The resultant recommendations were graded according to the quality of the evidence and the potential benefit gained from early detection and intervention.

We have identified multiple genetic variants in SLC28A3 and other genes associated with ACT. Combined with clinical risk factors, genetic risk profiling might be used to identify high-risk patients who can then be provided with safer treatment options.

SummaryOver the last 40 years, great progress has been made in treating childhood and adult cancers. However, this progress has come at an unforeseen cost, in the form of emerging long-term effects of anthracycline treatment. A major complication of anthracycline therapy is its adverse cardiovascular effects. If these cardiac complications could be reduced or prevented, higher doses of anthracyclines could potentially be used, thereby further increasing cancer cure rates. Moreover, as the incidence of cardiac toxicity resulting in congestive heart failure or even heart transplantation dropped, the quality and extent of life for cancer survivors would improve. We review the proposed mechanisms of action of anthracyclines and the consequences associated with anthracycline treatment in children and adults. We summarise the most promising current strategies to limit or prevent anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity, as well as possible strategies to prevent existing cardiomyopathy from worsening.