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Hematology in palliative medicine.
1The Harrny R. Horvitz Center for Palliative Medicine, Cleveland Taussig Cancer Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
The American Journal of Hospice & Palliative Care
|December 23, 2004
Summary
Patients with advanced cancer or chronic nonmalignant diseases often experience hematological issues like anemia and blood clotting problems. This article focuses on these common conditions, excluding those specific to chemotherapy or bone marrow transplants.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Advanced cancer and chronic nonmalignant diseases frequently lead to hematological complications.
- Commonly observed issues include anemia and coagulation disorders such as venous thrombosis and thrombocytopenia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the primary hematological problems associated with advanced cancer and life-limiting chronic nonmalignant diseases.
- To focus on anemia, venous thrombosis, and thrombocytopenia in these patient populations.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on hematological disorders in advanced disease.
- Focus on clinical presentation, pathophysiology, and management of anemia and coagulation abnormalities.
Main Results:
- Anemia is a prevalent condition in patients with advanced malignancies and chronic nonmalignant diseases.
- Coagulation disorders, particularly venous thromboembolism and thrombocytopenia, are significant complications.
- These hematological issues contribute to morbidity and mortality in affected patients.
Conclusions:
- Hematological problems are a critical aspect of managing patients with advanced cancer and chronic nonmalignant diseases.
- Understanding and addressing anemia and coagulation disorders are essential for improving patient outcomes.
- This review provides a foundation for clinical practice, excluding complications specific to intensive treatments like chemotherapy and bone marrow transplantation.