Erythropoietin
Also known as: ERYTH
Use
Erythropoietin testing is primarily used as an initial screening test for evaluating polycythemia. It is also utilized to determine the eligibility for erythropoietin therapy in patients with anemia due to chronic renal failure. This assay measures erythropoietin levels, which are expected to increase in response to anemia caused by iron deficiency, aplastic anemia, or hemolytic anemia. Elevated levels may also be indicative of renal tumors, renal transplant rejection, and secondary polycythemia. Conversely, low levels are often observed in polycythemia rubra vera and in certain anemic conditions in patients with HIV under AZT treatment.
Special Instructions
The test involves the collection of either serum or plasma using separator tubes. Ensure serum clots completely at room temperature before separating it from cells. To ensure accuracy, serum or plasma should be separated from cells as soon as possible or within 2 hours of collection, and transferred to a standard transport tube.
Limitations
The assay may not be suitable for patients with hemolyzed specimens, as these are considered unacceptable conditions. Bone marrow aspirates and EDTA plasma are also unsuitable specimen types. Ensuring proper collection, separation, and storage conditions are crucial to prevent inaccurate results.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (CLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 15061-5
Result Turnaround Time
0-1 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Allow serum to clot completely at room temperature. Separate serum from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Bone marrow aspirate, EDTA plasma, and hemolyzed specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 8 hours |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | 2 months |