[Erythropoietin and hypertension]

Abstract

Recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEpo) has been demonstrated in several studies to be effective in correcting the anemia of regular dialysis patients. This was accompanied by a significant improvement of the physical work capacity shown by exercise testing. The main side effect of rhEpo treatment has been the development or aggravation of hypertension in approximately 30% of the treated patients. In 2% hypertensive encephalopathy and convulsions occurred. Data obtained by measurements of regional blood flow indicate the peripheral resistance did increase probably due to rise of blood viscosity and reversal of preexisting hypoxic vasodilatation. To avoid hypertensive complications anemia should be corrected slowly over a period of 12-16 weeks. Target hematocrit should not exceed 30-35 vol. %. Blood pressure and volume status should be monitored closely.