Erythropoietin (EPO)

Chemical Pathology

Notes

Erythropoietin (EPO) is a hormone produced mainly by the kidney, involved in the control of red blood cell production. Erythropoietin levels are indicated for:

• Differential diagnosis of polycythaemia
• To determine efficacy of EPO treatment
• Investigation of unexplained anaemia

Sample requirements

For adults, 5 ml of blood taken into a narrow gold top tube (or rust top for the Acute Unit)

Storage/transport

Do not store. Send at ambient temperature to the laboratory on the day of collection.

Required information

Relevant clinical details, including reason for the request and whether for diagnosis or monitoring of treatment.

Turnaround times

Samples are sent to North Bristol NHS Trust for analysis, with results expected back within 2 weeks.

Reference ranges

EPO: 2.6 - 15.8 mIU/mL

Further Information

To learn more about erythropoietin visit Lab Tests Online

Page last updated 10/10/2024