Ján Rajec, Jana Obertová, Beata Mladosievičová
The introduction of biological drugs from the group of tyrosine kinase inhibitors into clinical practice improved the prognosis of many tumours, refractory to previous therapies. However, except for the action on tumour receptors, receptors providing physiological homeostasis of various tissues and organ systems are being influenced as well. This results in toxicity of different kind and grade. One of the most serious is cardiotoxicity, which mechanisms of origin have not been fully clarified yet. Direct toxic effect of drugs to myocardium is being considered. From indirect causes, an arterial hypertension is being discussed most intensively. Besides trastuzumab, most available data concern the cardiotoxicity of bevacizumab within the group of monoclonal antibodies. Treatment is nonspecific. The proper assessment of individual patient risk before initiation of potentially cardiotoxic therapy is necessary.