Anthracyclines are important components of many chemotherapy regimens for various solid and hematologic malignancies, including breast, gynecologic, and bladder cancers, as well as leukemia and lymphoma. Unfortunately, they are associated with a recognized risk of cardiotoxicity. Drugs in this class include doxorubicin, daunorubicin, epirubicin, mitoxantrone and idarubicin. The available evidence suggests that anthracycline-induced injury to the heart occurs during exposure and evolves over time.

Cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD), the classic cardiotoxicity associated with anthracyclines, is a serious adverse event that leads to interruption of cancer treatment, potentially severe heart failure (HF), and even death. Early identification of cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction is essential as it allows for early implementation of medical HF therapy.

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