Predialysis versus postdialysis hematocrit evaluation during erythropoietin therapy

Abstract American guidelines for the management of renal anemia by recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) recommend collecting a predialysis blood sample to evaluate hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) levels in hemodialysis patients. Although a predialysis blood sample is appropriate for evaluating when to start rHuEPO treatment, the same sample would not be appropriate for evaluating the target Hb/Hct to be maintained, particularly when normal or near-normal values are pursued. We measured the degree of intradialytic and extradialytic variation of Hb, Hct, and body weight in 68 stable hemodialysis patients on maintenance subcutaneous rHuEPO treatment. Hb and Hct concentrations were determined before and after dialysis. In 16 patients, Hb and Hct concentrations also were assessed 24 hours after the end of dialysis. Predialysis versus postdialysis Hb and Hct concentrations for all patients were 10.5 ± 1.3 g/dL versus 11.5 ± 1.3 g/dL ( P P P P 2002 by the National Kidney Foundation, Inc.