Erythropoietin (cont.)
How is the erythropoietin test performed?
The patient is usually asked to fast for 8-10 hours
(overnight) and sometimes to lie quietly and relax for 20
or 30 minutes before the test. The test requires a routine
sample of blood, which is sent to the laboratory for analysis.
What are normal erythropoietin levels?
Normal levels of erythropoietin range from 4 up to 24 mU/ml (milliunits per milliliter).
What does an abnormal erythropoietin level
indicate?
Lower than normal values of erythropoietin are seen, for example,
in anemia due to chronic (longstanding) kidney failure.
Elevated erythropoietin levels can be seen, for example, in
polycythemia rubra vera, a disorder characterized by an
excess of red blood cells.
The correct interpretation of an abnormal erythropoietin level
depends on the particular clinical situation.
Can a person without a medical disease
or condition have a high erythropoietin level?
Yes. For example, erythropoietin has been misused as a performance-enhancing drug in athletes such as cyclists (in the Tour de
France), long-distance runners, speed skaters, and Nordic
(cross-country) skiers. When misused in such situations,
erythropoietin is thought to be especially dangerous (perhaps because
dehydration due to vigorous exercise can further increase
the thickness (viscosity) of the blood, raising the risk
for heart attacks and
strokes. Erythropoietin has been banned by the
Tour de France, the Olympics, and other sports organizations.
Is erythropoietin available as a prescribed medication?
Yes. Using recombinant DNA technology, erythropoietin has been synthetically produced for use as a treatment for persons with certain types of anemia. Erythropoietin can be used to correct anemia by stimulating red blood cell production in the bone marrow in these conditions. The medication is known as epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit). It can be given as an injection intravenously (into a vein) or subcutaneously (under the skin).
Next: What are the clinical uses of erythropoietin (EPO)? »
- epoetin alfa, Epogen, Procrit - Explains the medication epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit), a drug used to treat anemia (low red blood cell count) that is associated with chronic kidney failure in patients who are or will be receiving renal dialysis.
- Hemoglobin - Read about hemoglobin - the protein molecule in red blood cells. Learn what normal, low, and high level hemoglobin counts mean on MedicineNet.com
- Kidney Failure - Learn about kidney failure, in which the body has fluid retention, risen blood pressure, toxin build up and lack of red blood cells. Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, and apetite loss.
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