Kidney Failure and Anemia

Session Description:
One of the most common complications of kidney disease is the development of anemia, as the hormone erythropoietin is produced in the kidney. Recombinant erythropoietin and analogues of the hormone have been the mainstay of anemia management in kidney disease for the past 40 years. In recent years an increased understanding of erythropoiesis in kidney has led to new therapeutic advances, and the recognition of new biological pathways affecting anemia in kidney disease. This session will describe the latest advances in the biology of anemia and its therapy in kidney disease.

Learning Objectives:
Increased understanding of the mechanisms underlying the role of hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) in the treatment of anemia. Improved understanding of how to manage iron deficiency in the setting of anemia and kidney disease. An enhanced understanding of the interplay between iron metabolism and the phosphatonin hormone FGF-23 in kidney disease.