Cardiovascular effects after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Increasing numbers of patients now survive long-term following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation can induce damage of various organs and tissues--from minimal potentially progressive subclinical changes to life-threatening conditions. These potential complications and effects include endocrine, respiratory, skeletal, neurological and other complications, as well as cardiotoxicity and secondary malignancies. Cardiovascular effects belong to life-threatening. There is a possibility of decreasing these effects--by their prevention, earlier diagnosis and treatment. It is necessary for the patient to receive lifelong care including cardiology follow-up after such intensive oncologic treatment.