Biomarker approach to the detection and cardioprotective strategies during anthracycline chemotherapy.

Treatment of cancer patients with anthracycline chemotherapy has resulted in significant improvements in the overall survival of this population. These regimens, however, are associated with important cardiotoxic side effects. As the incidence and prevalence of cancer rises, there is a need to decrease the cardiotoxic risks associated with chemotherapy. Biomarkers targeting early identification of patients at risk for anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity and effective cardioprotective therapeutics can fulfill this need and are a priority in the field of cardio-oncology. This review highlights the current evidence regarding the use of biomarkers in anthracycline-treated patients and presents the available literature on prophylactic cardioprotective strategies.