Journal of Clinical Oncology, Vol 3, 429-446, Copyright © 1985 by American Society of Clinical Oncology
Neoplasia and the erythron
DC Doll and RB Weiss
Neoplasms may affect the erythroid system in a variety of ways. By far the
most common abnormality associated with neoplastic disorders is anemia. It
is important to recognize that there are multiple causes of anemia
associated with neoplasms, because therapy of the anemia varies according
to the causative mechanism. Less commonly, the paraneoplastic syndrome of
erythrocytosis may occur in some patients with neoplasia. More subtle
abnormalities of the erythrocytes associated with malignant disease include
modification of the RBC membrane, changes in erythrocyte enzymes, and
abnormalities in hemoglobin production. Clinical awareness of the multiple
effects of neoplasms on the erythron will lead to better patient management
and may also improve our understanding of erythropoiesis.