The relation between erythropoietin, hematocrit and hemoglobin in breast cancer patients on non-nephrotoxic chemotherapy.

Serum erythropoietin (EPO), hematocrit and hemoglobin levels were determined in 17 female patients with stage II breast cancer before, during and at the conclusion of non-nephrotoxic chemotherapy. Serum EPO levels were determined using the ELISA technique. No irradiation was given to any patient. The hemoglobin and hematocrit levels remained stable. However, a statistically significant increase in EPO was noted (p<0.05). The possible factors involved in this increase are reviewed, however the exact mechanism remains to be elucidated.