This is useful for athletes, since red blood cells shuttle oxygen to the cells, including muscle cells, enabling them to operate more effectively. By injecting EPO, athletes aim to increase the number of red blood cells and, consequently, their aerobic capacity. If EPO levels are too high the body will produce too many red blood cells which can thicken the blood, leading to clotting, heart attack and stroke. Repeated doses of EPO can also stimulate the development of antibodies directed against EPO, which can result in anaemia.
The long-term health risks of sustained EPO use are still unclear. Although Epo may have some effect on mitosis in early erythroid progenitor cells, its control of RBC production appears to occur in later stages of erythroid cell development, where it prevents programmed cell death.
Abstract Erythropoietin Epo is a glycoprotein hormone produced in the kidney that acts on erythroid progenitor cells in the bone marrow. Publication types Research Support, U. Abnormal erythropoietin levels may indicate an issue in the kidneys or bone marrow. Tests for erythropoietin levels can help doctors identify the underlying cause of blood conditions.
Such causes include anemia. In people with low erythropoietin levels due to kidney disease or other conditions, ESA injections may help treat the issue. ESA injections carry some risks, however, as they make the blood thicker and more prone to clotting. Also, healthy people who abuse these injections may be at a higher risk of more serious complications. Anyone who is uncertain about their diagnosis or treatment should talk to their doctor about all the treatment options before making any changes.
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Medically reviewed by Kevin Martinez, M. Definition Function Tests Results Injections Summary Erythropoietin is a vital hormone that stimulates the bone marrow to create red blood cells in the body.
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