Recombinant human erythropoietin and renal anemia: molecular biology, clinical efficacy, and nervous system effects

Article Abstract:

Chronic kidney (renal) failure is generally accompanied by anemia (an abnormally low number of red blood cells). It is estimated that over 90 percent of renal failure patients who require dialysis (filtration of the blood to remove wastes) have anemia. Renal anemia is caused by a deficiency in erythropoietin. Erythropoietin is a protein that is produced mainly in the kidneys, and is important for the production of red blood cells. With the use of genetic engineering techniques this protein has been manufactured by drug companies; in this form, it is known as recombinant human erythropoietin. When administered to patients with renal anemia, it has been successful in increasing the number of red blood cells to a normal range within 8 to 14 weeks. However, there are several complications associated with this treatment. Iron deficiency is common in dialysis patients, and erythropoietin is not effective in patients with iron deficiency. This problem can be corrected by using iron supplements. The most severe complication caused by treatment with erythropoietin is hypertension (elevated blood pressure). It usually occurs within the first three months of treatment while the number of red blood cells is increasing. In some cases, treatment with erythropoietin has caused clots to form in blood vessels, including the site (vessel) where the dialysis machine is connected. Uremia (the presence of waste products in the blood) can occur in patients with renal failure and often affects the brain. Uremia reduces memory, learning ability, attention and concentration. A recent study indicated that the mental capabilities of dialysis patients showed signs of improvement following treatment with erythropoietin. These findings indicate that erythropoietin is effective in treating renal anemia in patients with chronic renal failure. As the anemia is corrected the patients show improvement in mental function and experience improved quality of life. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Health aspects, Care and treatment, Evaluation, Complications and side effects, Drug therapy, Chronic kidney failure, Renal anemia

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Erythropoietin to prevent blood transfusion in patients having total hip replacement surgery

Article Abstract:

Giving patients epoetin alfa before hip replacement surgery might reduce their need for blood transfusions, according to a study of 201 patients. Epoetin alfa is a drug similar to the natural hormone erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells.

Usage, Prevention, Blood transfusion, Artificial hip joints, Hip prostheses

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Out of thin air: the evolving enigma of erythropoietin and neocytolysis

Article Abstract:

Research has shown that the body can destroy newly created red blood cells under certain conditions. This process is called neocytolysis. Normally the body only destroys the oldest red blood cells.

Editorial, Physiological aspects, Hemolysis and hemolysins, Hemolysis, Erythropoietin

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