Additional non-renal applications

Babies, especially babies born prematurely, often exhibit anaemia, which is characterized by a steadily decreasing serum haemoglobin level during the first 8 weeks of life. While multiple factors contribute to development of anaemia of prematurity, a lower than normal serum EPO level is a characteristic trait. In vitro studies indicate that BFU-E and CFU-E cells from such babies are responsive to EPO, and several pilot clinical trials have been initiated. Administration of 300-600 lU EPO/kg/week generally was found to enhance erythropoiesis and reduced the number of transfusions required by up to 30%. 

Patients who have received an allogeneic bone marrow transplant characteristically display depressed serum EPO levels for up to 6 months post-transplantation. Administration of EPO thus seems a logical approach to counteract this effect. Several clinical studies have validated 

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In addition to enhancing erythropoiesis, EPO treatment also improves tolerance to exercise, as well as a patient s sense of well-being. Furthermore, reducing/eliminating the necessity for blood transfusions also reduces/eliminates the associated risk of accidental transmission of blood-borne infectious agents, as well as the risk of precipitating adverse transfusion reactions in recipients. The therapeutic spotlight upon EPO has now shifted to additional (non-renal) applications (Table 10.8). 

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