Serum erythropoietin levels in ovarian cancer patients receiving chemotherapy

Objective: To investigate the effects of repeated cis-dichlorodiamine-platinum (CDDP) exposure on serum erythropoietin (Epo) levels. Study design: In seven patients with ovarian cancer, Epo and haemoglobin concentration (c(Hb)) were measured before, 24 It and 7 days after administration of the first three courses of chemotherapy. In seven control patients undergoing gynaecological surgery for non-malignant reasons, Epo and C-Hb were measured before, 24 h and 7 days after the operation. Results: Following Epo increased, independent of concomitant anaemia, especially after the third course: 51 mU/ml (S.D. 46) versus 122 mU/ml (S.D. 83) (P = 0.02). In the control patients, Epo was lower although the decrease Of CHb was significantly higher. Conclusion: Cis-platinum chemotherapy induces an increase in erythropoietin levels independent of anaemia. The underlying mechanism remains to be investigated. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.