Cancer-Associated Anemia

Cancer-associated anemia remains a common complication of malignancies. Main factors which produce anemia are the effect of chemo- and radiotherapy, concurrent infections, nutritional deficiencies, and cytokines released by both tumor and immune cells which suppress erythropoiesis by affecting erythroid progenitor proliferation, erythropoietin production, and red cell survival. For effective management, an early diagnosis is mandatory. In this chapter, a clinical case scenario is presented followed by a step-by-step evidence-based approach to utilize specialized and advanced tests to unravel final diagnosis of cancer-associated anemia. A comprehensive description of pathophysiology of disease, investigations of suspected case of bone marrow metastasis from unknown primary site and initial screening panel of immunostains are discussed in question – answer format. Salient points are summarized for quick revision. To gain expertise on this topic and enhance your skills for effective planning of management, read this chapter on cancer-associated anemia.