Cancer related anaemia (CRA)

Abstract

Cancer-related anemia (CRA) is a complicated and multifaceted problem that can occur as a result of tumor, as an adverse reaction of chemotherapeutic agent, or as a result of neurotoxic effects. The symptoms of CRA vary depending on an individual's response to blood loss or reduction in the number of red blood cell production. Patients with severe anemia have different characteristics depending on the type of haematological malignancy they have. Clinical and biochemical evaluations, as well as bone marrow examinations, may be useful diagnostic tools in many cases. Iron therapy can be usedalone or in combination with ESA to improve the response of Hb and to decrease the need of RBC transfusion. lood transfusion carries a number of risks, some of which can be mitigated or even eliminated.. Even though erythropoietin-stimulating agents (ESAs) have been shown to be effective in preventing anemia and reducing the need for blood transfusions, it would be helpful for identifying high-risk patient groups that would benefit the most from these expensive treatments. Blood transfusions should be used on a specific instance basic principle in patients with advanced cancer, depending on the extent of distressing symptoms and life expectancy.