Abstract
Introduction
This prospective observational study examined the adherence to published European guidelines on erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) and the pattern of use and effect of darbepoetin alfa (DA) 500 μg once every 3 weeks (Q3W) for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced anaemia (CIA).
Materials and methods
A total of 293 patients were included (263 solid tumour, 30 haematologic malignancy). Their mean age was 63 years, 51% were male, 57% had platinum-based chemotherapy. DA was started at a haemoglobin (Hb) level between 9 and 11 g/dL in 82% of patients.
Results and discussion
In an analysis correcting for transfusions, 55% of patients achieved ≥2 g/dL increase in Hb, and a Hb level of >11 g/dL was reached in 81%. Transfusion rate was 27%. Most patients (70%) were treated in a Q3W chemotherapy, and planned synchronisation of chemotherapy and Q3W DA could be maintained in 76%.
Conclusion
Adherence to European guidelines for DA treatment was good, and Q3W DA treatment was in synchronisation with Q3W chemotherapy in the majority of the patients, thereby reproducing the findings of a recent phase III study.
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Pat, K., Anrys, B., Verhulst, D. et al. Observational Aranesp® Survey to Investigate the Q3W Schedule (OASIS): a prospective observational study of treatment of chemotherapy-induced anaemia with every 3 weeks darbepoetin alfa. Support Care Cancer 17, 211–215 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-008-0517-y
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00520-008-0517-y