Algorithm of anemia correction in oncological patients

Abstract

Anemia is one of the most frequent manifestations of oncological diseases and complications of cytotoxic chemotherapy. Development of this symptom is directly associated with decreased quality of life and possible stimulation of neoangiogenesis, increased tumor aggressiveness and decreased tumor sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiation. Current clinical trial data show decreased overall survival of patients with anemia. Modern methods of anemia correction in oncological diseases include exchange transfusion and administration of recombinant erythropoietins. Transfusion of erythrocyte-containing blood components allow to quickly replenish hemoglobin level, however there is risk of complications. A significant disadvantage of this method is short duration of the effect. Use of erythropoietins allows to reliably increase hemoglobin levels in 60–70 % of oncological patients with long-term effect. In recent years, use of erythropoietins in patients with oncological diseases became a topic of discussion due to possible negative effect on tumor through stimulation of erythropoietin receptors on neoplastic cells. This discussion led to recommendation of using erythropoietins only during chemotherapy in minimal doses.