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The role of erythropoietin in the anaemia of chronic disease in rheumatoid arthritis

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Summary

We reviewed studies on the role of erythropoietin (Epo) in the anaemia of chronic disease (ACD) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A relatively impaired Epo response to the anaemia was found in a number of studies although in others serum Epo level was the same as in other types of anaemia. Some arguments are found in favour of a reduced bone marrow-Epo sensitivity although these reflect results mainly from in vitro experiments. It is not yet established whether bone marrow macrophage Epo production is impaired in ACD. In two cases Epo administration to RA patients resulted in increased erythropoiesis. It was concluded that impaired Epo production or reduced bone marrow Epo sensitivity might be associated with ACD but it is not certain whether these factors are causally linked with ACD or side phenomena of RA disease activity. Future Epo treatment in RA and ACD will possibly solve this question.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Internal Medicine, Zuiderziekenhuis, Rotterdam

    G. Vreugdenhil

  2. Department of Rheumatology, The Dr Daniel den Hoed Clinic, P.O. Box 5201, 3008, AE Rotterdam, The Netherlands

    G. Vreugdenhil & A. J. G. Swaak M.D., Ph.D.

  3. The Netherlands Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

    A. J. G. Swaak M.D., Ph.D.

Authors
  1. G. Vreugdenhil
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  2. A. J. G. Swaak M.D., Ph.D.
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Vreugdenhil, G., Swaak, A.J.G. The role of erythropoietin in the anaemia of chronic disease in rheumatoid arthritis. Clin Rheumatol 9, 22–27 (1990). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02030236

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