Erythropoietin EPO Test
The erythropoietin (EPO) test is a diagnostic tool used to measure the levels of erythropoietin hormone in the blood. EPO is produced by the kidneys and regulates red blood cell production in the bone marrow. The EPO levels increase when the body doesn’t get enough oxygen. This test is often employed in cases of anemia or to detect bone marrow disorder or polycythemia (a condition that causes the production of too many red blood cells).
Healthcare practitioners recommend this test if they suspect anemia due to abnormal production of red blood cells.
Symptoms of anaemia
Extreme tiredness or weakness
Lack of stamina
Pale skin color
Dizziness
Irritability
Headache
Shortness of breath during physical activity
What is the Erythropoietin test used for?
An erythropoietin test is recommended if:
You experience symptoms of anemia
You are suffering from chronic kidney disease
Your complete blood count shows an increased number of RBCs and a high hematocrit and hemoglobin levels
Your health care provider suspects that you have a bone marrow disorder, such as myeloproliferative neoplasms
Preparation for the test
No special preparation is required for the erythropoietin test.
Interpretation of results
The units of measurement for the results are milliunits per millilitre (mU/mL)
The reference range for EPO is 2.6 to 18.5 (mU/mL).
Deviation from normal levels indicates the following:
- Elevated levels of erythropoietin may indicate secondary polycythemia, wherein there is an excess production of red blood cells triggered by factors such as low oxygen levels, often experienced at high altitudes or, in rare cases, due to a tumor releasing EPO.
- Decreased EPO levels may be due to underlying conditions such as chronic kidney failure, anemia of chronic disease, or polycythemia vera (a type of blood cancer).
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the erythropoietin test?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a small needle. Usually, this procedure does not take more than 5 minutes.
What are the risks associated with the erythropoietin test?
This test is relatively safe. There might be slight soreness or tenderness around the site where the blood is drawn. Rarely, the site can become infected.
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the result of the erythropoietin test?
The erythropoietin test results are usually available within 1-3 working days after the sample collection. This duration may vary depending on the diagnostic clinic.
Can adequate erythropoietin production by my kidneys be restored?
Your kidneys can restore adequate erythropoietin production indirectly. If you are having low EPO levels due to a temporary kidney issue, resolving that condition could lead to restoration of EPO production. However, if the cause is chronic kidney disease, improvement over time might be unlikely. In such cases, your healthcare provider will focus on managing the resulting anemia and may opt for synthetic erythropoietin (erythropoietin replacement therapy) as a treatment.
I have heard some athletes are tested for EPO. Why?
Athletes are tested for EPO due to its misuse in a practice known as "blood doping." Some individuals use synthetic EPO to enhance their endurance and oxygen-carrying capacity by boosting red blood cell production. However, this practice is unsafe, as it can lead to hypertension and thickening of the blood. Consequently, most sports bodies, including the International Association of Athletics Federations, have banned its use. Testing for erythropoietin is now a routine part of anti-doping measures in events such as the Olympics.
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