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Erythropoiesis Stimulating Agents (ESAs) in Cancer and Related Neoplastic Conditions

CMS has determined that ESA treatment is reasonable and necessary for
anemia secondary to myelosuppressive anticancer chemotherapy in solid tumors, multiple myeloma,
lymphoma and lymphocytic leukemia under specified conditions. CMS has also determined that ESA
treatment is not reasonable and necessary for beneficiaries with certain clinical conditions, either because of a deleterious effect of the ESA on their underlying disease or because the underlying disease increases their risk of adverse effects related to ESA use.

Download the Guidance Document

Issued by: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)

Issue Date: January 14, 2008

DISCLAIMER: The contents of this database lack the force and effect of law, except as authorized by law (including Medicare Advantage Rate Announcements and Advance Notices) or as specifically incorporated into a contract. The Department may not cite, use, or rely on any guidance that is not posted on the guidance repository, except to establish historical facts.