Carfilzomib-induced pulmonary hypertension with associated right ventricular dysfunction: A case report

Abstract

Carfilzomib, a selective proteasome inhibitor, is approved for use in relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma. Its link to left ventricular dysfunction is well established but little is known about its effects on the right ventricle. One of its rare complications is pulmonary hypertension, which at its extreme may result in right ventricular dysfunction. Here, we present a case of an elderly male veteran with multiple myeloma status post various failed therapies who developed acute dyspnea after four cycles of carfilzomib and subsequently found to have severe pulmonary hypertension with resultant acute right ventricular failure, which recovered after cessation of carfilzomib. This case highlights the need for careful cardiovascular surveillance while on carfilzomib and the importance of knowing even its rarest complications as these cardiotoxicities are reversible with discontinuation of the drug.