The role of epoetin beta in the treatment of anaemia in patients with gynaecological malignancies.
Cancer-related anaemia has a major detrimental effect on quality of life (QoL) and adversely affects patient outcome, having a negative impact on local tumour control, disease-free survival and overall survival. The incidence of cancer-related anaemia is particularly high among patients with gynaecological cancers, affecting up to 80% of individuals in this patient group. Anaemia may develop as a consequence of the disease itself; however, the myelosuppressive and nephrotoxic effects of the intensive chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy regimens frequently used in the treatment of gynaecological cancer are major causative factors. Although blood transfusions were traditionally used for the management of anaemia in patients with cancer, associated adverse events and inconvenience of use have meant that they are now reserved for patients with severe anaemia who require rapid improvements in haemoglobin (Hb) levels. As a consequence, epoetins, with their ability to provide stable Hb levels over prolonged periods, are now firmly established in the management of cancer-related anaemia. The efficacy of epoetin beta, a recombinant human erythropoietin, has been investigated in patients with gynaecological malignancies and anaemia in several European trials. These studies confirm that epoetin beta increases Hb levels, reduces transfusion requirements and improves QoL, and support the use of epoetin beta as an integral part of the treatment regimen in patients with ovarian or cervical malignancies receiving radio-and/or chemotherapy.
Cornes
P
P
The Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre, Horfield Road, Bristol, BS2 8ED, UK. paul.cornes@ubht.swest.nhs.uk
Boiangiu
I
I
D000740:Anemia / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D064420:Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions; D004921:Erythropoietin / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D005833:Genital Neoplasms, Female / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D011878:Radiotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D011994:Recombinant Proteins; D016019:Survival Analysis
D011994:Recombinant Proteins; C103998:epoetin beta; D004921:Erythropoietin