Effect of erythropoietin (rHuEPO) on trace elements and quality of life (Qol) in chronic hemodialysis patients.

In 30 patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis and whose hematocrit levels had been maintained at 30-50% for 2 years with recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) administration, changes of serum proteins, serum albumin levels, improvement of trace elements such as zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni) and manganese (Mn), and quality of life (Qol) were examined for 2 years. rHuEPO therapy significantly improved the protein nutritional status, as well as serum Zn, Ni and Mn levels; the concentrations of Zn ion (Zn++), Ni ion (Ni++) and Mn ion (Mn++) in serum were significantly elevated. Objective and subjective Qol of 30 patients showed significant improvement with rHuEPO therapy for 2 years.