Characteristic features of anemic syndrome in oncological patients

Anemia is a common complication of oncological diseases that has a strong negative influence not only on the quality of life, but also on the effectiveness of specific treatment and survival rate. In the present review, current data on the pathogenesis and clinical implications of anemia in patients with malignancies are summarized. General principles underlying management of this group of patients are outlined on the basis of the results of recent clinical trials and guidelines. The safety issues related to administration of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents and vitamin B12 are discussed