Erythropoietin

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Erythropoeitin (EPO) is a hormone produced predominantly (mainly) by the kidney (and in small amounts by the liver) which controls & is essential in red blood cell production. It acts on precursors (stem cells) which are found primarily in the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. In anemia, levels of erythropoeitin rise dramatically to induce production of high levels of red blood cells. Low oxygen levels stimulate the production of erythropoeitin in order to increase red cell production to maintain oxygen levels in the body & tissues.

Dogs with chronic renal failure may not produce enough Erythropoeitin to maintain normal red cell levels, this problem being compounded if the dog has AIHA as well. Human Erythropoeitin (EPO) injections are available but is controversial. Some studies show that antibodies often develop against this “foreign” erythropoeitin, resulting in a sudden huge drop in red cells to the point where a blood transfusion is the only possible treatment. Other forms of EPO are now available, again with controversial results – be very cautious when deciding if EPO is a suitable treatment for your dog . It is vital that iron supplements (& multivitamins including th Bs) are given with EPO.

In addition to red cell production stimulation, Erythropoeitin (EPO) also has an effect on dilation of blood vessels , smooth muscle fibres and increases iron absorption. It acts as a neural protector during hypoxia. In humans, it has been found to have a “protecting” effect on the nervous system, including improving memory & depression.