Serum/plasma mass concentration of erythropoietin (EPO)
This test measures the amount of erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone produced mainly in the kidneys, that helps your body make red blood cells. It may be checked to evaluate kidney function, anemia, or responses to treatments like erythropoiesis-stimulating agents.
["EPO levels help assess kidney health and red blood cell production."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14049-1
- Short code
- EGF SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- EGF SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of anemia (such as fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath), unexplained low red blood cell counts, or if you’re being treated for conditions like chronic kidney disease. It can also be used to monitor how your body responds to medications that stimulate red blood cell production.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves drawing blood from a vein. If you’re having a urine test, you might need to collect a sample over a 24-hour period, depending on the reason for the test.
What Happens During the Test?
For blood tests, a healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm. A small amount of blood will be drawn and sent to a lab for analysis. If a urine sample is involved, you’ll collect it in a container at home or in a clinic.
What Do Results Mean?
Results are interpreted based on your medical history, symptoms, and other lab tests. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like kidney disease, anemia, or certain cancers. Your doctor will discuss the results with you in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: EPO Levels
Short name
EPO Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What are the normal ranges for EPO?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy