The use of recombinant human erythropoietin (EPO) to correct the anemia of end-stage renal disease: a progress report
Adamson, W.; Egrie, J.C.; Browne, J.K.; Downing, M.R.; Eschbach, W.
Behring Institute Mitteilungen 1988(83): 188-192
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0301-0457 PMID: 3071336 Document Number: 316437
End-stage renal disease (ESRD) typically is associated with severe anemia. The major contributor to the anemia appears to be the absolute or relative deficiency of erythropoietin (EPO) production by the kidney. A series of clinical trials have been conducted in the United States using recombinant human EPO (rh EPO) to treat anemic patients with ESRD. The encouraging results of the Phase I-II clinical trials have been confirmed in a multicenter trial in which over 250 patients have been treated. The results indicate that rh EPO can effectively correct the anemia of ESRD and the rate of correction is dependent upon the initial dose given. The rHuEpo was well tolerated, produced few or no direct side effects, and was effective in greater than 95 percent of the patients. rh EPO should have a major role in the correction of the anemia of ESRD and contribute significantly to the rehabilitation of such patients.