Erythropoietin is a hormone that plays an important role in making red blood cells.
The kidneys and liver produce erythropoietin when oxygen levels in the cells are low. The hormone then stimulates the bone marrow, which, in turn, makes more red blood cells.
Erythropoietin is indicated for the treatment of- Anemia associated with Chronic Renal Failure, including patients on dialysis and patients not on dialysis. Anemia in patients with non-myeloid malignancies where anemia is due to the effect of concomitantly administered chemotherapy.
It is normal for a small amount of erythropoietin to circulate in the blood, as this helps replenish the body's natural blood stores.
Having higher levels of erythropoietin in the blood may be a sign that the body is not getting enough oxygen, however. This may be due to a low red blood cell count from anemia or another condition.
On the other hand, low levels of erythropoietin in the blood in someone with anemia may be a sign of other issues.