Hessien M.
Moderate hypoxic conditions improve anemia and iron profile in end stage renal disease patients.
Biomedica Jan ;31(1):30-5.

The objective of this study was to investigate anemia and iron profile of hemodialysis patients permanently living at moderate altitude (2400m) and to monitor their response to erythropoietin (Epo) treatment. Materials and Methods: The study included 80 patients; their glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was estimated according to the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease formula. Hematocrit (HCT) percent and iron profile were estimated in moderate altitude patients receiving or not receiving Epo therapy, and compared to the corresponding patients living at low altitude. Results: The results indicated that altitude patients gained higher HCT% and showed better response to Epo treatment. Their eGFR was improved in Epo – treated patients. Significant improvement in iron profile was observed, where iron level was significantly increased, at hypoxic conditions. However, iron was extensively consumed, for erythropoiesis in Epo – treated patients. Total iron binding capacity was lower than normal, but significantly better than low altitude patients. Serum ferritin showed a wide inter-individual variability, where it varied from normal to high normal and showed a significant increase compared to healthy patients. The study demonstrates that anemia, eGFR and iron indices in end stage renal disease patients were improved due to their exposure to moderate hypoxia and Epo thereby.

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