The role of erythropoietins in cancer therapy

Abstract

Anemia is a common hematological complication in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Reduction of hemoglobin level is accompanied by a significant deterioration in the patients’ life quality. A transfusion of erythrocyte mass is used to rapidly increase the hemoglobin level in case of development of a symptomatic anemia. However, a large range of risks limit the wide use of blood transfusions. Erythropoiesis-stimulating proteins are the drugs that reduce the need for blood transfusions. Treatment with erythropoietins provides a smooth and prolonged rise in the hemoglobin level, the release of fully functional red blood cells into the blood. The use of erythropoietins can significantly improve the quality of life of cancer patients without reducing the effectiveness of chemotherapy.