Erythropoietin (EPO)
Use
This test is intended as an aid in the diagnosis of anemias and polycythemias. With the advent of the administration of recombinant erythropoietin as a biologic therapy to increase red blood cell mass, an erythropoietin assay may be used also to aid in the prediction and monitoring of response to recombinant erythropoietin treatment of anemia.
Special Instructions
Serial patient monitoring is recommended at the same time of day due to potential diurnal variation in EPO levels. For optimal results, use the same commercial EPO test for serial testing.
Limitations
Erythropoietin levels alone cannot distinguish primary from secondary polycythemia. The assay cannot differentiate endogenous from exogenous EPO and may be subject to interference from heterophile antibodies, producing erroneous results. Individuals at high altitudes may have elevated EPO levels. It is important to use the same assay method for consistent results. Various anemias show different EPO baseline levels.
Methodology
Immunoassay (CLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 15061-5
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
Red-top tube or gel-barrier tube
Collection Instructions
If a red-top tube is used, transfer separated serum to a plastic transport tube.
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |