Cardiovascular disease in long-term survivors of pediatric Hodgkin's disease

Treatment of pediatric Hodgkin's disease is largely a success story enabling investigators to explore the late of effects of cancer treatment in long-term survivors. Since mediastinal irradiation is an important component in the management of pediatric Hodgkin's disease, there are potentially significant long-term effects on the cardiovascular system. These are frequently associated with radiation therapy, both with and without chemotherapy. This review article explores the effect of such therapy on the pericardium, myocardium, coronary arteries, branch pulmonary arteries, conduction system as well as the valves. Although early and late effects are identified, their significance remains somewhat unclear. The most severe changes are most often associated with outdated treatment techniques.