Update on cancer therapy-induced atherosclerosis

Abstract

Purpose of reviewRecent advances in oncologic therapies have significantly improved overall survival for patients with malignancy. However, cardiovascular complications have not only increased in this population due to shared risk factors and pathophysiology, but also due to the therapies themselves. One key mechanism that warrants further attention is accelerated atherosclerosis due to these agents. Recent findingsHere we review recent studies focusing on four classes of anticancer agents with the potential to accelerate atherosclerosis, including breakpoint cluster region-Ableson (BCR-ABL) tyrosine kinase inhibitors, immunotherapies, androgen deprivation therapies, and vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors. In addition to drug therapy, radiation therapy may also accelerate atherosclerosis.

Cancer and arterial thrombosis: therapeutic options

“…Proposed mechanisms include direct endothelial injury and changes in vascular smooth muscle cell reactivity [ 45 ]. ACS can also be triggered by destabilization of atherosclerotic lesions, leading to plaque rupture and immediate term accelerated atherosclerosis [ 46 ]. The classical cytotoxic agent associated was cisplatin; however, multiple targeted therapies such as BCR-ABL TKI, ICI, and vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors have such off-target effects.…”

Calcium-Controlled Reactive Oxygen Species Afterburner Perpetuates Endothelial Damage After Radiation Therapy

“…Moreover, it is becoming clear that cancer therapy is an independent risk factor for different forms of cardiovascular disease. 1 Under this aspect, a plethora of different, directly toxicity-mediated side effects to accelerated vascular diseases are assembled; like doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy or radiation therapy-induced vasculopathies. The latter aspect includes accelerated arteriosclerosis and small vessel disease.…”