[Management of chemotherapy-induced anemia in lung cancer]

Abstract

Introduction: The prevalence of chemotherapy-induced anemia in lung cancer is estimated at about 80%.

State of art: There are currently no specific recommendations for the management of chemotherapy-induced anemia in lung cancer. In this paper, we propose a synthesis of currently existing data in the literature on the management of chemotherapy-induced anemia in general, supplemented with specific data about the efficacy and safety of erythropoietic therapy in lung cancer.

Perspectives: Better management of chemotherapy-induced anemia improves patient's quality of life and reduces red blood cell transfusion requirement. In the meantime, in respect to currently missing data, thoracic oncologists should develop specific recommendations for the management of chemotherapy-induced anemia in lung cancer, with specific studies in this domain.

Conclusions: Since the prevalence of chemotherapy-induced anemia in patients with lung cancer is high and has a significant impact on these patients quality of life, a specific prospective management should be implemented as early as possible.

Keywords: Anemia; Anémie; Cancer bronchique; Chemotherapy; Chimiothérapie; Lung cancer.