Erythropoietin (EPO)

Hematology

Normal Reference Ranges

Adult

4.1 - 19.5 mIU/mL

Pediatric

5.0 - 20.0 mIU/mL

Clinical Significance

Hormone produced by the kidneys that stimulates RBC production. Extremely low in Polycythemia Vera; very high in secondary polycythemia.

Causes of High

  • Hypoxia (COPD, High altitude)
  • Anemia (appropriate compensation)
  • EPO-secreting tumors (Renal cell carcinoma, Hepatocellular carcinoma)

Causes of Low

  • Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
  • Polycythemia Vera (PV)
  • Bone marrow disorders