ABSTRACT
Anemia is the most common hematological abnormality observed in cancer
patients. Its consequences include a reduction in oxygen delivery to the tissues, a
decline in functional status and quality of life, and an increase in the frequency
of red blood cell transfusions. The primary regulator of erythropoiesis in
humans, erythropoietin, was one of the first human proteins cloned and devel-
oped for clinical application. Recombinant erythropoietin (rEPO) transformed
the management of anemia in several settings, including that occurring during
cancer chemotherapy. Determining the optimal management of anemia in this
setting has proven to be more challenging than was initially assumed and the
field continues to evolve rapidly as additional data relevant to the pathophysi-
ology of anemia and the benefits and safety or treatment are developed.
