Test Overview
Clinical Utility
EPO is a valuable tool in diagnosing and managing conditions related to red blood cell production and kidney function. Its clinical utility includes:
- Investigating Polycythemia by differentiating between primary and secondary causes of an increased red blood cell count or insufficient red blood cell production (Anemia).
- Monitoring Treatment: Evaluates the effectiveness of treatments for anemia.
- Assessing Kidney Function: Low EPO levels can indicate kidney dysfunction, while high levels might suggest other conditions.
Method
Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA)
Result Included
Erythropoietin
Specimen
Specimen Type
SerumContainers
Collection Containers
Gold top (clot activator & gel)
Volume
Sample Volume
1.0 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Collection & Handling
Collection Instructions
Allow samples to clot completely at room temperature prior to centrifugation. Due to diurnal variation, it is recommended that specimens be collected between 7:30 a.m. and 12 p.m. (noon).
Stability
| Ambient | Refrigerated | Frozen |
|---|---|---|
| < 8 hours | 24 hours | > 24 hours |
Three freeze-thaw cycles are acceptable.
Performance & Interpretation
Turnaround Time
2 days
Results
Name
Units
Reference Range
Conversion
-
ErythropoietinmIU/mL<1 y: Not established
Male 1 - 3 y: 1.7 - 17.9
Male 4 - 6 y: 3.5 - 21.9
Male 7 - 9 y: 1.0 - 13.5
Male 10 - 12 y: 1.0 - 14.0
Male 13 - 15 y: 2.2 - 14.4
Male 16 - 18 y: 1.5 - 15.2
Male >18 y: 2.6 - 18.5
Female 1 - 3 y: 2.1 - 15.9
Female 4 - 6 y: 2.9 - 8.5
Female 7 - 9 y: 2.1 - 8.2
Female 10 - 12 y: 1.1 - 9.1
Female 13 - 15 y: 3.8 - 20.5
Female 16 - 18 y: 2.0 - 14.2
Female >18 y: 2.6 - 18.5
Referral Location
Canada
Interface & Setup
HL7 Interface Codes
| Order Code | Result Name | Result Codes | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| EPOSTM S | Erythropoietin | 65593 | mIU/mL |
Test Version
Last Updated
2024-08-13