The use of erythropoietin in neonates

Human recombinant erythropoietin (Epo) has been studied extensively as trea tment for a variety of anemias. Numerous clinical trials have reported vari ous levels of success in the treatment of the anemia of prematurity. Recent ly, Epo has been used in the first weeks of life to alleviate the anemia ca used by excessive phlebotomy losses and to prevent the anemia of prematurit y. In addition, Epo has been tried clinically in a variety of neonatal popu lations to decrease or eliminate transfusions. This article describes mecha nisms of erythropoiesis in the fetus and in the preterm and term infant, an d the use of Epo to prevent and treat anemia in neonates.