Weighing the Hazards of Erythropoiesis Stimulation in Patients with Cancer.

This article presents an editorial on weighing the hazards of erythropoiesis stimulation in cancer patients. Possible risks from taking erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) are thromboembolic disease, promotion of tumor growth and decreased survival. The drug, used to treat anemia caused by chemotherapy in cancer patients, has been the subject of several studies which are outlined here. The author says the U.S. Food and Drug Administration needs to adopt new guidelines for use.