The effect of radiotherapy on cardiac function

BACKGROUNDRadiation-induced heart disease is a complication that may be encountered after radiotherapy (RT) of tumors in the vicinity of the heart. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of RT on the heart, by comparing conventional and tissue Doppler echocardiography parameters obtained before and after RT. METHODSForty patients who had undergone RT for either lung or left breast cancer were included in the study. ECG, conventional, and tissue Doppler echocardiography were performed before and 4–6 weeks after RT. RESULTSThe mean value of the radiation dose applied to all regions of the heart was calculated as 13.1±2.2 Gy (maximum 41.7 Gy). The value for the left ventricle was 10.2±2.0 Gy (maximum 43.6 Gy). A decrease in early transmitral diastolic velocity (E), E/A ratio, EF, Em, and Em/Am, and an increase in E-wave deceleration time, isovolumic relaxation time, isovolumic contraction time, ejection time, and QTc were found after RT. CONCLUSIONWe found detrimental effects of RT on systolic and diastolic cardiac functions and the electrical conduction system of the heart. Maximal prevention should be provided for the patients during RT.