Anthracycline-induced cardiorenal toxicity: from molecular mechanisms to clinical management
-
By
-
Linke Jiao
-
Chao Yuan
-
Li Wang
-
Yating Zhao
-
Guoxia Zhang
-
Xinyu Yang
-
Yonghong Gao
-
Fan Yang
-
Xinye Li
-
Na An
-
Hongcai Shang
-
Yanwei Xing
-
May 12, 2026
-
Clinical Scorecard: Cardiorenal Toxicity Induced by Anthracyclines: Insights into Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Strategies for Management
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Anthracycline-induced cardiorenal toxicity |
| Key Mechanisms | Direct nephrotoxicity, cardiac dysfunction exacerbating renal injury, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammatory responses. |
| Target Population | Patients receiving anthracycline therapy, particularly those with pre-existing cardiac or renal dysfunction. |
| Care Setting | Oncology clinics. |
Key Highlights
- Anthracyclines are associated with significant cardiotoxicity and nephrotoxicity.
- The incidence of cardiotoxicity ranges from 5% to 48%, with dose-dependent patterns.
- Renal injury occurs in approximately 12%–18% of patients receiving doxorubicin.
- Cardiorenal interactions can exacerbate overall disease burden.
- Dexrazoxane is the only approved cardioprotective agent, with limited renoprotective effects.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Monitor cardiac biomarkers and renal function tests in patients receiving anthracyclines.
Management
- Consider the use of dexrazoxane for cardioprotection in high-risk patients.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Regular assessment of cardiac and renal function is essential during anthracycline therapy.
Risks
- Increased risk of multi-organ damage in elderly patients and those with comorbidities.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Patients undergoing treatment with anthracyclines for malignancies such as breast cancer, lymphoma, and leukemia.
Individual susceptibility varies; some patients tolerate standard doses while others may develop toxicity early.
Clinical Best Practices
- Implement monitoring strategies for early detection of cardiorenal toxicity.
- Educate patients about the risks associated with anthracycline therapy.
- Develop individualized treatment plans considering patient-specific risk factors.
Related Resources & Content
