Management of anemia in outpatients with non-hematologic cancer

DIC: disseminated intravascular coagulation; ESA: erythropoiesis-stimulating agent; RBC: red blood cell; TMA: thrombotic microangiopathy; VTE: venous thromboembolism.

* An ESA generally takes 2 to 4 weeks to increase the hemoglobin. Depending on symptoms, this may not be an acceptable delay, and transfusions may be needed. ESAs are associated with an increased risk of thrombosis and may shorten survival in some patients. They are avoided in individuals with prior thromboembolism who are not receiving anticoagulation and individuals with uncontrolled hypertension.