A decrease in the number of circulating blood cells (anemia) is a common problem in people who have
chronic kidney disease. It is often caused by a
decrease in the amount of a protein produced by the kidneys (erythropoietin).
Some people who receive
man-made erythropoietin (rhEPO therapy) continue to have anemia because of low
levels of iron in their blood. These people are usually given extra iron to
help treat this problem. Intravenous (IV) iron may be needed if oral iron does
not increase iron levels. IV iron can also be used to treat anemia that occurs
September 15, 2011
Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & Mitchell H. Rosner, MD - Nephrology
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