Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
Erythropoietin is a glycoprotein hormone that controls erythropoiesis (red cell production). It is produced by interstitial fibroblasts in the kidneys and also perisiusoidla cells in the liver. EPO also plays a role in the brain’s response to neuronal injury and is also involved in the wound healing process. Production is regulated by changes in Oxygen availability. An over expression may be seen in COPD, cyanotic heart disease, sleep apnoea, smoking, or due to over production by neoplastic cells. Elevated EPO is also found in aplastic anaemia, iron deficiency, thalassaemia, megaloblastic anaemia and myelodysplasia. Low EPO production is found in conjunction with certain forms of anaemic states such as renal failure, auto-immune disease, rheumatoid arthritis, AIDS and malnutrition
Specimen container paediatric:
Purple – EDTA
Specimen container adult:
Purple – EDTA
Minimum volume paediatric:
1.0mL
Minimum volume adult:
2.0mL
Special requirements:
Ensure adequate mixing.
Sample stability:
Centrifuge within 30 mins of collection. Seperated plasma is stable in fridge for 7 days or indefinitely in the freezer.
Transport requirements:
Sample must be transported to lab without delay (see sample stability information)
Freq analysis:
Approximately weekly depending on batch size
Add on test:
[email protected] (external)
Quality assurance:
UK NEQAS
Reference ranges:
4.2 – 16.3mIU/mL
Other info:
Quantitative assay for erythropoietin levels.