Recombinant human erythropoietin beta therapy: an effective strategy to reduce transfusion requirement in children receiving anticancer treatment
Abstract
In recent years erythropoietic agents have become important tools in the management of anemia in cancer patients, improving hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations, reducing the need for transfusion, and enhancing quality of life. In this prospective and historically controlled study, the effects of epoetin beta on Hb concentrations and red blood cell transfusion needs in children with cancer receiving chemotherapy or radiotherapy have been investigated. Epoetin beta (150 U/kg/day, 3 days a week) was given subcutaneously to 22 children with cancer when Hb concentration < or = 10 g/dL. Data from these patients were compared with those from 20 historical control patients. Hb concentrations were studied weekly in the first 9 weeks, then weekly or fortnightly thereafter. Minimum, maximum, and mean Hb concentrations, frequency of red blood cell transfusion, and the number of red cell packs given were noted. Hb concentrations in weeks 6, 8, and 11 were clearly higher in the study group than the controls. The minimum Hb concentration of the study group was significantly higher than than the control group (7.98 +/- 0.73 [6.70-9.68] g/dL and 7.24 +/- 1.40 [5.50-11.20] g/dL, respectively [p = .038]). A total of 8 units of erythrocyte suspension w...Continue Reading
References
Recombinant human erythropoietin for the treatment of anemia in children with solid malignant tumors
Incidence of anemia in pediatric cancer patients in Europe: results of a large, international survey
EORTC guidelines for the use of erythropoietic proteins in anaemic patients with cancer: 2006 update
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