Side Effect: Decreased Heart Function (Decreased LVEF)

What is Decreased Heart Function (Decreased LVEF)?

Decreased heart function, also known as reduced cardiac function, refers to the decreased ability of the heart to pump blood effectively. It is commonly measured by a decrease in the ejection fraction (EF), which is the percent of blood pumped out of the left ventricle with each heartbeat. A normal EF ranges between 55 to 70%. A decrease in EF can indicate heart failure, where the heart is not able to meet the body’s demands for blood and oxygen.

What does Decreased Heart Function (Decreased LVEF) look like?

Decreased heart function, particularly in patients with cancer, often presents with a range of symptoms that can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life. Patients may experience shortness of breath while being active as well as persistent fatigue and weakness, making it difficult to perform daily activities. Dizziness can occur, which can lead to balance issues and an increased risk of falls. Additionally, swelling in the legs or feet (also known as peripheral edema) is frequently observed due to the heart’s reduced ability to circulate blood efficiently. Symptoms may vary depending on how much heart function has decreased. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider about any of the above symptoms when they occur.

Who gets Decreased Heart Function (Decreased LVEF)?

Patients with cancer are at an increased risk of decreased heart function due to the exposure to certain medications and radiation therapy. Patients diagnosed with breast cancer, lymphoma, and sarcoma are three areas that may be at higher risk for decreased heart function. A list of common medications that can decrease heart function are below:

How to prevent Decreased Heart Function (Decreased LVEF)

Preventing decreased heart function in patients with cancer involves regular monitoring and proactive management strategies involving imaging and possibly medications. Lifestyle changes, like maintaining healthy diet and exercising regularly. However, the key to prevention is routine assessment of cardiac function by getting:

These can detect early signs of decreased heart function. Heart protective medications are sometimes prescribed, which include:

Patients receiving anthracycline therapy may also receive a medication to prevent anthracycline induced heart damage, called dexrazoxane (Zinecard®). Medications along with actively watching the heart and help identify a decrease in heart function early. This can ensure the therapeutic benefits of cancer treatment are maximized while keeping patients safe.

How to treat Decreased Heart Function (Decreased LVEF)

Treating decreased heart function, often referred to as heart failure, involves multiple types of treatment. Below are some common types of treatments:

Medications:

Devices:

Monitoring and Lifestyle Changes:

Minimizing Cardiotoxicity:


Overall, by combining treatments and closely monitoring the patient’s condition, healthcare providers aim to improve heart function, help symptoms, and enhance quality of life for those with decreased heart function.

References

1) Yoon GJ, Telli ML, Kao DP, et al. Left ventricular dysfunction in patients receiving cardiotoxic cancer therapies are clinicians responding optimally? J Am Coll Cardiol 2010;56(20):1644-1650

2) Jerusalem G, Lancellotti P, Kim SB. HER2+ breast cancer treatment and cardiotoxicity: monitoring and management. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2019;177(2):237-250

3) Tajiri K, Aonuma K, Sekine I. Cardio-oncology: a multidisciplinary approach for detection, prevention and management of cardiac dysfunction in cancer patients. Jpn J Clin Oncol 2017;47(8):678-682

Created: May 25, 2024 Updated: July 17, 2024