How is anaemia treated?

The treatment for anaemia is tailored to address its underlying cause. A haematologist will evaluate the patient to determine the specific cause of the anaemia and recommend appropriate treatment options. Depending on the diagnosis, the following treatments may be considered:

• Transfusion or red blood cells
• Infusions of iron
• Hormonal injections to boost red cell production
  
• Replacement of iron or vitamins and dietary advice
• Immunosuppressive medication to control an immune system that is destroying red blood cells

For anaemia due to blood cancers such as leukemias, myelomas, lymphomas or myelodysplastic syndrome, dedicated teams in the blood cancer service will assess and plan treatment with chemotherapy, immunotherapy or haematopoietic stem cell transplant as needed.