Erythropoietin (EPO) is a glycoprotein hormone that regulates the production of red blood cells (erythrocytes). The hormone is produced naturally in the kidneys and can also be prescribed as medicine to treat certain diseases that cause anemia, for example in polycythemia vera or chronic kidney failure.
An analysis of erythropoietin (EPO) can be carried out if a problem related to red blood cell production is suspected, such as anemia or polycythemia. It may be particularly relevant to distinguish between different causes of these conditions, for example if the anemia is due to chronic kidney disease or if an increased amount of red blood cells is due to primary polycythemia (polycythemia vera) or a secondary cause, which may be oxygen deficiency due to lung disease or prolonged stay at high altitude. This blood test can help determine the cause of these conditions and is crucial in designing an effective treatment strategy.
Analysis in case of suspicion of polycythemia vera
To investigate polycythemia vera (PCV), analysis of erythropoietin (S-EPO) is recommended according to national guidelines, especially in the presence of elevated hemoglobin values;
HB above >170 g/L for men
HB above >160 g/L for women
