Renal Anemia
Description of the Disease
Anemia is a condition characterized by a reduced number of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the blood. In clinical practice, anemia is also defined by decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Essentially, anemia is a condition in which the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood is reduced, impairing the normal function of organs and tissues. Renal anemia develops as a result of impaired kidney function. It occurs early in the course of chronic kidney disease and progresses as kidney function declines.
Causes of the Disease
The kidneys produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which stimulates the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. When kidney function is impaired, erythropoietin production decreases. In addition, the accumulation of toxic substances in the body reduces the bone marrow’s response to erythropoietin, leading to a decrease in red blood cell production. Other causes of anemia in chronic kidney disease include frequent blood sampling for laboratory tests, blood loss during dialysis, and a shortened lifespan of red blood cells.
Symptoms
Renal anemia may cause the following symptoms:
- Pallor
- Fatigue
- Cold extremities
- Headache
- Heart palpitations
Diagnosis
Anemia is diagnosed through blood tests. Renal anemia is confirmed by assessing kidney function and identifying the underlying kidney disease responsible for the impaired renal function.
Treatment
Renal anemia is currently treated with erythropoietin. Treatment is generally initiated when the hemoglobin concentration falls below 100 g/L. Before erythropoietin therapy is started, iron stores should be replenished, usually with oral iron supplements.
Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology