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What is the procedure to conduct Erythropoietin test?
(April 7, 2010)
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Erythropoietin, which is also referred to as EPO, is a hormonal glycoprotein. It is produced in the kidneys and stimulates the stem cells in our bone marrow, thus aiding greater production of red blood cells. Greater amounts of this protein are usually produced when oxygen levels in the body are low.
The EPO or Erythropoietin test measures the levels of this glycoprotein in the blood.
Your doctor may advise you to take an Erythropoietin if you are suffering from anemia. But this is not a routine test for anemia. It is only ordered when it is suspected that your anemia is not caused by blood loss or deficiency of folate, Vitamin B12 or iron, but by a bone marrow disease. It is ordered to diagnose if your anemia is caused by suppressed bone marrow function, which further leads to insufficiency and decreased production of erythropoietin.
Patients who suffer from chronic kidney disease also have to undergo this test regularly in order to see if the kidney is still capable of producing sufficient quantities of erythropoietin.
Sometimes, a doctor may order an erythropoietin test to check for overproduction of erythropoietin, which is leading to overproduction of red blood cells. This condition is called polycythemia and usually happens at high altitudes or because of a tumor which releases greater quantities of erythropoietin.
There is no preparation required for this test. But if you are taking any medication for blood thinning purposes, it would be advisable to stop it at least 48 hours prior to the test. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or have any other medical condition, which may adversely affect the test.
As with all blood tests, blood will be drawn from the inside of your elbow or the back of your hand. The site will first be cleaned with a germ-killing antiseptic. A puncture will be made with a sterilized needle. The blood will be drawn and kept in a vial or tube, from where it will be sent to the lab. The puncture site will be covered with clean gauze to prevent further bleeding and infection.
This is a simple test, and you will not feel much discomfort except for a slight pricking sensation when the needle punctures your skin. However, some may feel dizzy or light-headed. The bleeding usually stops immediately, but you may get a slight bruise, pain or hematoma at the site of the puncture for a few days.
The normal range is usually between 0-19 milliunits per milliliter.
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Submitted by M T on April 7, 2010 at 10:20
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