Platelet aggregation and P-selectin concentration in patients on peritoneal dialysis treated with erythropoietin

In chronic renal failure disturbances of hemostasis are predominantly due to the defective platelet function and platelet/vessel wall interactions. Erythropoietin, used for treatment of renal anemia, affect hemostasis in dialyzed patients. The aim of the work was to assess platelet aggregation and P-selectin concentration in patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) during erythropoietin therapy. The studied were performed on 12 CAPD patients, administered with subcutaneous erythropoietin in a dose of 2000 U three times a week for 3 months. Hemoglobin, hematocrit and erythrocyte count increased significantly after 1 month of the treatment. Platelet aggregation in platelet-rich plasma induced by collagen, ristocetin and serotonin increased significantly after 3 months of erythropoietin therapy when compared to the baseline values. Whole blood platelet aggregation and P-selectin concentration did not change significantly during 3 months of erythropoietin therapy. Erythropoietin treatment in CAPD patients did not affect significantly platelet aggregation and activation.