Radionuclide ventriculography in testicular tumor patients following chemotherapy

The toxicity was investigated of cytostatics with respect to the myocardium. Radionuclide ventriculography was used to monitor a group of 38 patients treated with cisplatin, adriamycin, vepeside, vinblastine and bleomycin for testicular carcinoma. The examination was performed prior to chemotherapy, in the course of chemotherapy and within two years after its termination. The global ejection fraction of the left ventricle, the diastolic and residual volumes, heart beat and the level of arrhythmia were examined. It was found that deviations from the normal condition appear from the start of therapy to two and more years after its termination and in a healthy heart may well be compensated. Radionuclide ventriculography may be recommended for patients prior to the start of chemotherapy. (M.D.). 7 figs