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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Can Polycystic Kidney Disease Cause Anemia?

I am female, 80 years old. I have PKD. Cysts were found on my kidneys when I was 40. I was diagnosed 10 years ago.I was anemic and Procrit was prescribed. I am still on Procrit. I am stage 3. Over time my iron level has become lower and I started taking iron supplement. Recently the iron and ferritin levels were below the level that Procrit shots can be given. I had iron infusios and my iron level went down once more and I had another infusion.My concern is that the hematoligist Dr. where I receive the Procrit suspects bleeding. I have had 2 stool sample tests with no signs of blood and I am VERY observant and have seen no blood.My question is --Even though my kidney function is good, can the iron anemia be a result of the PKD? And is there a test to confirm that?Thank you for any help you might give.
Tue, 28 Jul 2015
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Pathologist and Microbiologist,  's  Response
I would analyse the cause of anemia based on your MCV, RDW, peripheral blood smear pattern etc. In addition tests such as reticulocyte count, serum ferritin and transferring are also required to find out the cause of your anemia. Usually polycystic kidney produces raised Hemoglobin due to increased erythropietin , however sometimes PKD may cause anemia . This anemia is usually due to declining renal function. However as you have described your renal function as normal I presume that renal function tests such as blood Urea nitrogen and creatinine have been done. Some of the other causes for anemia are anemia due to chronic blood loss. Chronic bleeding into the cysts may cause hematuria or blood in the urine which may be microscopic. To detect this we have to look at the urine report. Should you require more information you may post your complete blood count and hematological profile here for further assistance in finding out the cause of your anemia. Best regards.
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Can Polycystic Kidney Disease Cause Anemia?

I would analyse the cause of anemia based on your MCV, RDW, peripheral blood smear pattern etc. In addition tests such as reticulocyte count, serum ferritin and transferring are also required to find out the cause of your anemia. Usually polycystic kidney produces raised Hemoglobin due to increased erythropietin , however sometimes PKD may cause anemia . This anemia is usually due to declining renal function. However as you have described your renal function as normal I presume that renal function tests such as blood Urea nitrogen and creatinine have been done. Some of the other causes for anemia are anemia due to chronic blood loss. Chronic bleeding into the cysts may cause hematuria or blood in the urine which may be microscopic. To detect this we have to look at the urine report. Should you require more information you may post your complete blood count and hematological profile here for further assistance in finding out the cause of your anemia. Best regards.