Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents for Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease–Associated Anemia

Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) are administered routinely to manage anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD); however, the optimal target hemoglobin level remains uncertain. In this meta-analysis of 17 randomized trials, researchers evaluate the effect of different hemoglobin targets on health-related quality of life. More than 10,000 patients (predialysis and on dialysis) were involved. Follow-up ranged from 8 to 36 months; achieved hemoglobin levels ranged from 7.4 to 12 g/L in lower-hemoglobin–target groups and from 10.2 to 13.6 g/L in higher-hemoglobin–target groups.

Analyses showed no statistically significant difference in health-related quality of life between higher-hemoglobin–target and lower-hemoglobin–target …