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Erythropoietin therapy and cancer related anaemia: updated Swedish recommendations
Jane Ahlqvist-Rastad1, Maria Albertsson, Jonas Bergh
1Medical Products Agency, Uppsala 751 03, Sweden.
Abstract:
Due to concerns related to treatment with erythropoietin (EPO) and possible negative effects on tumour control, a workshop was organised by the Medical Products Agency of Sweden with the aim to revise national treatment guidelines if needed. In patients with solid tumours, conflicting results have been reported with respect to tumour control and survival. Until further notice it is therefore recommended that EPO should be used restrictively in the treatment of patients with cancer and that the anticipated improvement in quality of life should be evaluated against potential risks.
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