Anti-cancer agent-induced dyspnea

Abstract

Anti-cancer agents can cause dyspnea through a variety of mechanisms; cardiac toxicity, pulmonary toxicity, and vascular thrombotic events. Toxicity of the anthracyclines and other traditional chemotherapy drugs are well known, but problems associated with the newer biological agents are less well recognized. As palliative chemical therapies are being given to cancer patients even in advanced disease, it is important that palliative care professionals are aware of potential adverse effects that range from deteriorating dyspnea to rapid death. This article summarizes the agents associated with such toxicity, the mechanisms underpinning the effect on dyspnea, and the varying clinical presentations and management.

Keywords:

• Anti-cancer agent
• Dyspnea
• Chemotherapy