Complete Correction of Anemia Caused by Renal Disease May Increase Mortality

A target hemoglobin concentration of less than 12 g/dL appears to be optimal, according to findings of a meta-analysis.

The optimal target hemoglobin level in erythropoietin-treated patients with chronic renal disease has long been a source of controversy. Current guidelines recommend that hemoglobin be maintained above 11 g/dL, but recent studies have suggested that higher target levels may be associated with an increase in major cardiovascular events (Journal Watch Nov 15 2006).

Researchers conducted a meta-analysis of nine randomized controlled trials comparing low (<12 g/dL) and high (>12 g/dL) hemoglobin targets in 5143 patients with anemia caused by chronic renal disease who were treated with erythropoietin for at least 12 weeks. After 12 to 48 months of follow-up, patients with higher hemoglobin targets had significantly increased risks for all-cause m…

Reviewing Author

Bruce Soloway, MD