The management of critically ill patients with haematological malignancies

The management of critically ill patients with haematological malignancy (HM) still shows inter- and intra-regional differences. Our objective in this updated review was to address the evidence supporting the potential treatment options, based on multidisciplinary processes, of critically ill patients with HM. A stepwise approach to the critical care pathway of this patient population from the triage to ICU admission to ICU discharge was chosen to emphasise certain key findings. Our main focus relied on significant issues of decision-making in daily clinical routine. The plethora of studies shifted the pragmatic treatment policy into an evidence-based approach. The transfer of a patient with HM from the haematology ward to the ICU and vice versa should be based on a well-defined clinical care process in which the haematologists and intensivists are in close collaboration and direct communication. A protocolised clinical approach to treat a critically ill patient with HM seems helpful to optimise patient-oriented care and patient safety.