Manitoba Nephrology Nurse Practice Test

Which complication is characterized by reduced EPO synthesis in CKD patients?

1. Hypertension

2. Anemia

3. Dyslipidemia

4. Pruritus

The correct answer is: Anemia

In chronic kidney disease (CKD), the kidneys are unable to effectively filter waste products from the blood and also lose the ability to produce certain hormones, one of which is erythropoietin (EPO). EPO is essential for the stimulation of red blood cell production in the bone marrow. When EPO synthesis is reduced due to kidney impairment, it leads to a decrease in the production of red blood cells, resulting in anemia. Anemia in CKD is a common and significant complication, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and reduced exercise tolerance. Additionally, it can exacerbate cardiovascular issues due to the decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Therefore, recognizing anemia as a result of reduced EPO production in CKD patients highlights the critical role that kidney function plays in maintaining overall blood health. Other options, while pertinent to CKD, are not primarily characterized by reduced EPO synthesis. For instance, hypertension in CKD is typically a result of fluid overload and increased vascular resistance, dyslipidemia arises from altered lipid metabolism, and pruritus is linked to the accumulation of uremic toxins. Each of these complications can manifest in CKD but does not specifically stem from the diminished production of EPO like