What is the Erythropoietin test? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post, and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is the Erythropoietin test?
This is a test that measures the amount of a hormone produced called erythropoietin. This hormone signals the stem cells in the bone marrow to produce more RBCs and hence is manufactured by the kidneys.
Also Read: Thalassemia
What is Erythropoietin is a special hormone
Erythropoietin is a special hormone produced by specialized cells in the body by the kidneys. It maintains a healthy amount of RBC in the body. Also, it is given in man-made form to increase the available amount of oxygen to the cells in the body.
What is the normal range of EPO?
The normal range for it is 2.6 to 18.5 mU/mL.
What are the alternative names used?
When it is recommended by the physician, it is usually designated as EPO or Serum Erythropoietin.
How does Erythropoietin function?
Whenever there is a deficiency of oxygen in the body, cells in the kidney increase the production of EPO and in turn increase the RBC production in the bone marrow.
What does high levels of EPO mean?
High EPO levels mean that there is an excessive amount of RBCs and the term coined for this condition of high RBCs in the body is polycythemia.
What are the causes of high Erythropoietin levels?
The causes for this may be:
- Anemia
- Chronic kidney disease
- Certain tumours
- Living in High altitudes
- Chronic smoking
What are the causes of low Erythropoietin levels?
The causes for this are:
- Chronic kidney disease
- Polycythemia vera
- Anaemia (with low RBCs)
Can the levels be restored to normal on their own?
If the Erythropoietin levels are low due to a temporary condition of the Kidney, then it might be returned to normal on its own but if the cause is chronic damage to the kidneys or some serious health issue then the doctor needs to treat the symptoms and minimize the effect of anaemia and treat accordingly.
Is the condition of low EPO treatable?
It can be treated with a synthetic form available which is given in cases of chronic kidney disease and severe cases of bone marrow suppression. But in cases where the cause of anaemia is different (like thalassemia), respective treatment for the cause of anaemia is given.
