Which complication is commonly monitored in end-stage kidney disease because the kidneys produce less erythropoietin?

Which complication is commonly monitored in end-stage kidney disease because the kidneys produce less erythropoietin?

• A. Jaundice
• B. Anemia
• C. Hyperexcitability
• D. Hypophosphatemia

Answer: (B)

Main concept: Erythropoietin from the kidneys stimulates red blood cell production. When the kidneys are failing, they produce less erythropoietin, so the bone marrow doesn’t get enough signal to make new red blood cells. This directly leads to anemia, which is the complication clinicians monitor in end-stage kidney disease. Anemia in this setting explains symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath, and doctors routinely check hemoglobin and hematocrit to assess it. Treatment often involves erythropoiesis-stimulating agents and iron management to support red blood cell production and improve oxygen carrying capacity. Jaundice would point to liver or blood disorders rather than a lack of erythropoietin. Hyperexcitability reflects electrolyte or nerve issues, not a direct consequence of reduced erythropoietin. Hypophosphatemia is uncommon in advanced kidney disease, where phosphate typically rises due to decreased excretion.

Main concept: Erythropoietin from the kidneys stimulates red blood cell production. When the kidneys are failing, they produce less erythropoietin, so the bone marrow doesn’t get enough signal to make new red blood cells. This directly leads to anemia, which is the complication clinicians monitor in end-stage kidney disease.

Anemia in this setting explains symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath, and doctors routinely check hemoglobin and hematocrit to assess it. Treatment often involves erythropoiesis-stimulating agents and iron management to support red blood cell production and improve oxygen carrying capacity.

Jaundice would point to liver or blood disorders rather than a lack of erythropoietin. Hyperexcitability reflects electrolyte or nerve issues, not a direct consequence of reduced erythropoietin. Hypophosphatemia is uncommon in advanced kidney disease, where phosphate typically rises due to decreased excretion.