What is the purpose of erythropoietin test?
The erythropoietin (EPO) test is used to determine if hormonal secretion is causing changes in the red blood cells. The test has great value in evaluating low hemoglobin (anemia), and another disorder called polycythemia, in which unusually large numbers of red blood cells are found in the blood. The EPO test is also used to identify kidney tumors and identify or assess kidney disease It also may be used to evaluate abuse by athletes who believe commercially prepared erythropoietin enhances performance. Source: The Gale Group. Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine, 3rd ed.
