Taxanes can affect a patient's ECG during and after chemotherapy.
Taxanes can stimulate histamine receptors as well decrease perfusion through coronary arteries.
ECG changes may include:
(1) sinus bradycardia
(2) atrial fibrillation
(3) atrioventricular block
(4) ventricular tachycardia
(5) ischemic changes
Risk factors for ECG changes:
(1) failure to premedicate that patient with an antihistamine and corticosteroid
(2) pre-existing cardiac conduction disorder
(3) history of congestive heart failure or myocardial infarction
(4) abnormal serum electrolytes
(5) AV blocking drugs (digoxin, beta blocker, calcium antagonist)
Paclitaxel enhances doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity so doxorubicin therapy should precede the paclitaxel.
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Specialty: Hematology Oncology, Cardiology, Pharmacology, clinical
