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Serum/plasma substance concentration for erythropoietin (EPO)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of erythropoietin, a hormone produced by your kidneys that helps your body make red blood cells.

Quick summary

["EPO helps regulate your blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity and may be checked if you have symptoms of anemia or kidney issues."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
92960-4
Short code
P aeruginosa DNA BAL NAA+non-prb-NCncRng
Synonyms
P aeruginosa DNA BAL NAA+non-prb-NCncRng
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
non-probe-amp-tar
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 This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions like chronic kidney disease, anemia (low red blood cells), or polycythemia (too many red blood cells). It can also help monitor treatment responses, such as for certain cancers or blood disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. If you’re taking certain medications (like erythropoietin itself), let your doctor know before testing.

What the Results Mean

Results help doctors assess whether your kidneys are producing enough EPO or if another condition is affecting your blood cells. Abnormal levels may signal underlying health concerns.

Common Conditions Linked to EPO Levels

High EPO levels might indicate kidney disease, dehydration, or certain cancers. Low levels could suggest anemia, liver disease, or kidney dysfunction. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: EPO is critical for red blood cell production. Abnormal levels can signal kidney function issues, anemia, or other systemic disorders requiring further evaluation.

Short name

EPO Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes EPO levels to change?
EPO levels can rise due to kidney disease, dehydration, or certain cancers (e.g., renal cell carcinoma). They may fall with anemia, liver problems, or medications that affect blood production.
How often is this test repeated?
Frequency depends on your condition. If you have kidney disease, your doctor may order this test every few months to monitor progress or adjust treatments.
Can diet or supplements affect EPO levels?
Dietary iron, vitamin B12, or folate may indirectly support red blood cell health but don’t directly influence EPO levels. Avoiding alcohol and managing kidney health can help maintain stable results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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