Mechanisms contributing to the anemia associated with a localized solid tumor

The anemia associated with a localized solid tumor is a chronic hypoproliferative process referred to as the anemia of chronic disease. Several mechanisms responsible for this anemia have been proposed. A defect in iron reutilization was well accepted until challenged by a report in 1977. Evidence also exists to support bone marrow failure as a contributing factor. Using Wistar rats made anemic by implantation of Walker-256 carcinosarcoma cells, both possibilities were investigated. By injecting heat-damaged and nonviable 59Fe-labeled red cells, a mild but definite defect in the reutilization of iron was established. Bone marrow function was studied in a separate group of tumor-bearing rats by measuring erythron iron turnover. No difference was found between normal and tumor-bearing rats, suggesting relative bone marrow failure in the latter group.