Jj. Griggs et N. Blumberg, Recombinant erythropoietin and blood transfusions in cancer chemotherapy-induced anemia, ANTI-CANC D, 9(10), 1998, pp. 925-932
Anemia represents a common side effect of cancer chemotherapy, and results
in diminished overall well-being as well as side effects such as dyspnea, f
atigue and decreased appetite. Treatment options for chemotherapy-induced a
nemia are transfusion of red blood cells and s.c. erythropoietin. Although
transfusion is generally well tolerated, patients usually experience fluctu
ating hemoglobin levels because of hesitancy to transfuse to normal hemoglo
bin levels. Additionally, concerns persist related to the safety of blood p
roducts, including the transmission of blood-borne pathogens, immunomodulat
ion by transfusion and severe allergic reactions, despite advances in trans
fusion medicine. Erythropoietin is an effective alternative to transfusion
in many patients and allows for a more consistent hemoglobin level. The cos
ts associated with the drug have limited its use. In addition, patient pref
erences for the two treatment options have not been investigated. Economic
analyses, including consideration of the costs associated with medical care
as well as the consequences, will be essential in evaluating the potential
of transfusions and erythropoietin in treating the anemia associated with
cancer chemotherapy. [(C) 1998 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.].