Management of COVID-19 in cancer patients receiving cardiotoxic anti-cancer therapy. Future recommendations for cardio-oncology

Abstract

Cardiotoxicity induced by anti-cancer treatment has become a significant threat as the number of cardiotoxic anti-cancer agents is growing. Cancer patients are at an increased risk of contracting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) because of immune suppression caused by anti-cancer drugs and/or supportive treatment. Deterioration in lung functions due to COVID-19 is responsible for many cardiac events. The presence of COVID-19 and some of its treatment modalities may increase the chance of cardiotoxicity development in cancer patients receiving potentially cardiotoxic agents. This review provides evidence-based information on the cardiotoxicity risk in cancer patients clinically diagnosed with COVID-19 who are receiving potentially cardiotoxic anti-cancer agents. Proposed strategies relating to the management of this patient cohorts are also discussed.

The effects of air pollution, meteorological parameters, and climate change on COVID-19 comorbidity and health disparities: A systematic review

“…Recent studies reported that people with gastrointestinal disorders also are at increased risk of complications due to COVID-19 [ 140 ]. Additionally, some of the drugs used to treat COVID-19 have been found to have adverse effects on the cardiac system [ 141 , 142 ].…”

Natural Products Counteracting Cardiotoxicity during Cancer Chemotherapy: The Special Case of Doxorubicin, a Comprehensive Review

“…Childhood cancer survivors are also at increased risk of cardiovascular complications in their adulthood [ 43 ]. A newly emerged challenge is the management of COVID-19 in cancer patients receiving cardiotoxic antineoplastics in whom deteriorated lung function may be responsible for many additional cardiac events [ 156 ]. Thus, prophylactic intervention is even more critical to prevent cardiotoxicity in this group.…”