PLASMA ERYTHROPOIETIN CONCENTRATIONS DURING THE EARLY ANEMIA OF PREMATURITY

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Abstract
Plasma erythropoietin concentrations were studied in 11 preterm appropriate for gestational age infants at the age of 3-14 wk. Their birth weights ranged from 860-1690 g. Erythropoietin was measured by a cell culture technique. Significant concentrations of erythropoietin was detected in 18 out of 29 samples, at all stages of the early anemia. The highest levels were found at 3-9 wk. Individual erythropoietin values did not correlate with Hb concentrations, hematocrit levels or corrected reticulocyte counts, nor did the corrected reticulocyte count correlate with Hb or hematocrit. The lack of correlation with Hb concentration most likely reflects the importance of other factors as well as the Hb in determining the oxygenation status of the infant. A significant positive correlation (r = 0.60, P < 0.01) was found between erythropoietin concentration and weight gain in the preceding week. Small preterm infants apparently are capable of erythropoietin production during their early anemia, and indicates that the hormone plays a role in the regulation of erythropoiesis also at this time of life.

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