Erythropoietin (EPO) blood test
Quick answer: An EPO test measures erythropoietin, a hormone made by the kidneys that tells the bone marrow to make red blood cells. Doctors order it to look into the cause of anaemia or a high red cell count.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1You may be asked to come in the morning
- 2The skin over a vein is cleaned
- 3A needle draws blood into a tube
- 4The lab measures EPO, often read with your blood count
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs and by age and sex, so discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A low level with anaemia can be seen with kidney disease. A high level can be seen with low oxygen from lung disease or high altitude, some tumours, or anaemia from other causes; a low level with a high red cell count can point to polycythaemia vera.
Who usually has this test
People with unexplained anaemia, especially with kidney disease, and people with a high red cell count.
Risks and aftercare
There is no special aftercare.
Names and options
Also called: EPO
Listed by the hospital as
- ERYTHROPOIETIN, SERUM
Questions about this test
Why do the kidneys matter for EPO?
Most EPO is made by the kidneys. When the kidneys are damaged, they make less EPO, which can lead to anaemia.
What is polycythaemia vera?
It is a bone marrow condition that makes too many red cells. EPO is usually low in it, which helps tell it apart from other causes.
Can EPO help find the cause of anaemia?
Yes. Comparing EPO with how anaemic you are helps show whether your body is making enough EPO.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.