Review of the cardiac long-term effects of therapy for Hodgkin lymphoma

Abstract

Patients diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma have a high cure rate. However, long-term survivors of the disease are at significantly increased risk for a number of late effects, with cardiovascular disease being the most common non-malignant cause of death in these patients. This review summarizes the available data regarding the types of cardiac complications, timing of their onset in relationship to initial treatment, associated risk factors, and available studies on the role of screening for subclinical cardiac disease. Given the known correlation between the extent of Hodgkin lymphoma therapy and subsequent cardiac risks, current trials investigating treatment reduction, including using lower radiation dose, smaller radiation field size and abbreviated chemotherapy will hopefully help in limiting cardiac toxicity. Screening for and aggressive management of traditional cardiac risk factors are also important strategies in reducing risks of cardiac disease in long-term Hodgkin lymphoma survivors.