27th May 2023

Erythropoietin (EPO)

EPO is produced in the kidneys in response to reduced oxygen and increases red blood cell production in the bone marrow. Recombinant EPO is used in the treatment of anaemia from renal failure and in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Baseline EPO levels should be taken:

• <100IU/L are likely to respond to EPO therapy
• >500IU/L are unlikely to respond
• If levels are 100-500IU/L, then a trial of treatment could be discussed with the patient

Recombinant EPO can cause hypertension and thromboembolic problems. Haematocrit should be carefully monitored. Recombinant EPO should not be started in the presence of iron deficiency, without concurrently managing the iron deficiency.