Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents for the management of anemia of chronic kidney disease: past advancements and current innovations.

Over the last century, remarkable advances have been made in the care of patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD), resulting in improved prognosis. However, for decades after the advent of dialysis, anemia-associated symptoms continued to adversely affect patients' daily lives. The identification, isolation, and eventual cloning of erythropoietin and its receptor led to development of erythropoiesis stimulating agents, revolutionizing anemia management. Continued advancements have paved the way for the discovery of novel erythropoiesis stimulating agents with enhanced properties. This article charts the history of anemia management in patients with ESRD, including the discovery of erythropoietin, and briefly reviews the development, mechanism of action, and select attributes of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents.