Author/Editor		Varl, J; Ponikvar, R; Malovrh, M; Benedik, M; Kveder, R
Title		Erythropoietin: our experiences
Type		članek
Source		In: Slovenian-Italian meeting on nephrology, Bled 1992: proceedings. Ljubljana: University medical center,
Publication year		1995
Volume		str. 103-5
Language		eng
Abstract		Anemia is important complication of chronic renal failure. Pts with ESRD (especially elder ones) may have a relatively poor quality of life partly due to anemia. In first part of the study the effect of s.c. application of r-HUEpo (Eprex) in 25 pts (22HD, 3 CAPD), 70.5+-4.5 years old was evaluated. Pts were treated with Epo 26.0+-6.3 months, target Hb was 100-110 g/L. A rise of Hb and Ht occured in all pts (between 1-3 months). The improved sense of well-being (Hb > 90 g/L) and elimination of anginal pain (in 5 pts) was registered. Moderate elevation of blood pressure occured in 10 pts (in one pt CVI), complications with AV fistula in 3 pts, clinically important decrease of vitamin B 12 (in 8 pts) and decrease of serum ferritin levels (in 11 pts) occured. Looking important iron deficiency during HD and R-HuEpo treatment the second part of the study was done. The possible ways for iron substition therapy was evaluated. 36 HD pts 50.2+-14.5 years old treated with r-HuEpo 24.2+-8.5 months where tratment with oral iron in macimal doses for several months became unsuccessful were investigated. IM application (total dose 300-600 mg of iron) was partly successful but inconvenient (painful application). IV substitution during HD treatment (total dose 1000 mg of iron) seems appropriate for majority of HD pts. Four noncomplicated allergic reactions (3 after IV and 1 after IM application) occured during treatment.
Descriptors		ERYTHROPOIETIN KIDNEY FAILURE, CHRONIC