Effect of recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) on protein, zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni) and manganese (Mn) in patients undergoing chronic haemodialysis.

Serum protein, albumin, Zn, Ni and Mn concentrations were examined in thirty patients undergoing chronic haemodialysis and whose haematocrit levels had been maintained at 30% for two years with rHuEPO. Serum total protein, albumin, Zn, Ni and Mn concentrations significantly increased with time for two years with rHuEPO therapy. All patients showed improvement of appetite and a normal protein balance. Serum Zn, Ni and Mn levels increased with serum total protein. In conclusion, rHuEPO therapy is very effective for the increase of serum protein, albumin, Zn, Ni and Mn levels in patients undergoing chronic haemodialysis.