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Cardiotoxicity

Meaning

Cardiotoxicity is a specific form of structural or functional damage to the heart muscle caused by exposure to external agents, most commonly certain pharmacological substances used in various medical treatments. This adverse effect can present acutely during the course of therapy or emerge years later as chronic heart failure or persistent arrhythmia. Recognizing and mitigating this risk is paramount in clinical practice, especially when administering agents like chemotherapy or specific hormonal preparations.