Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
What the test is
Kidney disease lowers EPO.
Why it's done
- High red blood cell counts
- Anemia with kidney disease
Getting ready and what happens
- None.
How the test is done
- A health worker cleans the skin, puts a band around your arm, and draws blood from a vein with a small needle. It takes a few minutes.
What the results mean
Low with high red cells
Suggests polycythemia vera.
High with high red cells
Suggests low oxygen (smoking, sleep apnea, lung disease) or, rarely, a tumor.
Questions to ask your provider
- What do my results mean for me?
- Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
Risks
A blood draw is very safe. You may have slight pain or a small bruise where the needle went in.
Related conditions
Related tests
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.