Erythropoietin test
Erythropoietin Test
Erythropoietin (EPO) is a protein hormone that controls red blood cell production. An erythropoietin test measures the amounts of erythropoietin in a sample of blood. High or low levels of Erythropoietin can indicate various disorders.
Preparation for Erythropoietin Test
No preparation is required for the erythropoietin test.
Procedure for Erythropoietin Test
The procedure for the erythropoietin test is as follows:
- A health care professional will insert a needle into a vein in your arm and collect about 5 milliliters of blood.
- The sample of blood is sent to a laboratory and analyzed.
Types of Erythropoietin Tests
- Erythropoietin Stimulation Test
- Erythropoietin ImmunoassayTest
- Erythropoietin Genotyping
Risks of Erythropoietin Test
Risks associated with the erythropoietin test are minimal but may include:
- Bleeding
- Infections
- Fainting or feeling lightheaded
- Bruising at the puncture site
- Hematoma
Why has an Erythropoietin Test been recommended?
Your doctor may recommend an erythropoietin test if you have symptoms that could be caused by anemia or other blood disorders. Your doctor may also recommend the erythropoietin test before or to monitor your response to chemotherapy.
When is an Erythropoietin Test ordered?
An erythropoietin test is ordered when someone has symptoms or signs of anemia, including:
- Pallor (pale skin)
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Rapid heart rate
- Shortness of breath
It is also ordered to monitor the effectiveness of chemotherapy and the effects of erythropoietin therapy, which is used to treat certain types of anemia.