[Anemia caused by cancer in the context of palliative care].

Tumor anemia is very common in patients with cancer. The causes are very diverse and the parameter value depends on several factors. If this however develops to be symptomatic it may adversely impact health related quality of life. Erythropoietin or blood transfusion provides options for treatment. However, these are not always uneventful. There could also be a lack of response to Erythropoietin. This case report describes the complexity of tumor anemia. It also includes a more detailed discussion on the Fatigue Syndrome, which is one of the most common symptoms of patients with cancer. In the context of palliative care there is often the question of alternatives for improving the quality of patients life. Some kinds of treatment may also cause the opposite effect. A multidimensional assessment should help to approach this difficult issue and to find ways for a meaningful treatment of the symptoms of anemia.