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The Evolving Role of Epoetin Alfa in Cancer Therapy

Joan Karnell Cancer Center, Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

Correspondence: David H. Henry, M.D., Joan Karnell Cancer Center, Pennsylvania Hospital, 230 West Washington Square, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106, USA. Telephone: 215-829-6311; Fax: 215-829-6104; e-mail: dhhenry{at}juno.com

Since its initial indication as hormone-replacement therapy in the anemia of chronic kidney disease, epoetin alfa has become a mainstay of therapy for chemotherapy-related anemia. Clinical studies have shown that epoetin alfa administered once weekly or three times weekly improves hemoglobin levels, decreases transfusion requirements, and improves quality of life independent of tumor response to chemotherapy. Ongoing research is now evaluating ways to improve the response rate to epoetin alfa, the potential benefits of alternative dosing regimens and early treatment intervention, and nonanemia-related indications (e.g., cognitive impairment, asthenia). In addition, scientists are exploring the role of epoetin alfa in preventing apoptosis and ischemic brain injury, as well as its activity in other nonerythroid tissues. Thus, the role of epoetin alfa is likely to expand in the cancer setting in the coming years.

Key Words. Epoetin alfa • Anemia • Cancer • Survival • Quality of life

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