Erythropoietin (EPO)
| Category | Biochemistry >> Endocrinology |
|---|---|
| Test background |
EPO is secreted at the juxta-glomerular junction of the kidney nephron to stimulate red cell haematopoiesis. As the packed cell volume (PCV) is lowered by iron deficiency, aplastic or haemolytic anaemia, the concentration of erythropoietin increases proportionately. In the absence of anaemia, elevated concentrations are seen in renal tumours, as a sign of renal transplant rejection, secondary polycythaemia and as a manifestation of myeloproliferative disease. Low values may be observed in haemachromatosis. |
| Clinical Indications |
Monitoring of anaemia in renal impairment Differential diagnosis of polycythaemia Monitoring of EPO treatment |
| Reference range | 0 – 9 IU/L |
| Sample & container required | SST (gold top) |
| Sample volume | 0.5 mL |
| Sample collection | Separate in a chilled centrifuge within 30 minutes of collection and freeze immediately. |
| Transport storage | Send to lab frozen. |
| Turnaround time | 10 days |
| Notes | Grossly haemolysed samples are unsuitable for this assay. |