Anemia in patients with oncological diseases: The role of parenteral iron preparations

This review focuses on the causes, pathogenesis, and potential new treatments for anemia in cancer patients. 61 sources published in Pubmed and other scientific databases have been analysed. Anemia is one of the most common complications in patients with oncological diseases and represents a significant negative prognostic factor affecting quality of life, tolerance of anti-tumor therapy, and overall survival. Its development is driven by multiple pathogenetic mechanisms, including chronic blood loss, metastatic bone involvement, functional iron deficiency due to systemic inflammation, and myelotoxic effects of chemotherapy. Early diagnosis of anemia is particularly important, as its presence may serve as a marker of advanced disease, as seen in colorectal cancer. Traditional correction methods – blood transfusions and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) – have substantial limitations. Transfusions carry risks of immune reactions, infections, and potentially worse prognosis, while ESA use is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic complications and requires strict adherence to indications. In this context, intravenous iron preparations have gained particular relevance. They are effective in both absolute and functional iron deficiency, enabling hemoglobin level elevation, reducing transfusion requirements, and improving patients’ quality of life. Recent studies confirm the safety and high efficacy of monotherapy with intravenous iron, including third-generation agents such as ferric carboxymaltose. Correcting anemia and iron deficiency plays a pivotal role in comprehensive cancer care, helping to maintain treatment timing and improve therapeutic outcomes.