The role of magnetic resonance imaging in cardio-oncology

In recent decades, groundbreaking methods of diagnosis and treatment were developed leading to significantly increased life span of patients with malignant neoplasms. Among patients treated for cancer, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death not associated with cancer. Early identification of cardiotoxicity is very important as it allows to apply early prevention measures and modify antitumor treatment schemes. Prevention and treatment of cardiotoxicity are possible only with a functioning multidisciplinary team including oncologists and cardiologists. Magnetic resonance imaging of the heart plays a significant role in monitoring the condition of cardiovascular system during antitumor treatment. This technique allows to obtain accurate characteristics of the tissues and evaluate myocardial perfusion without radiation exposure.