Long-Term Follow-Up of Chemotherapy-Induced Ovarian Failure in Young Breast Cancer Patients: The Role of Vascular Toxicity

Abstract

This study explored the role of vascular toxicity in mediating ovarian impairment and recovery following chemotherapy. Continuous prospective evaluation of ovarian vasculature and function in a cohort of young patients during and after chemotherapy indicated that ovarian toxicity may derive from acute vascular insult. Future studies are warranted to further characterize patterns of vascular toxicity of various chemotherapies in clinical practice and to assess the role of chemotherapy-induced vascular toxicity for specific end organs such as the ovary with systemic vascular effect. Elucidating the cause of impairment may facilitate development of measures to minimize vascular toxicity and consequences of acute vascular insult.