Endogenous and exogenous erythropoietin in left ventricular dysfunction

PhD ceremony: Ms. A.M.S. Belonje, 13.15 uur, Academiegebouw, Broerstraat 5, Groningen

Thesis: Endogenous and exogenous erythropoietin in left ventricular dysfunction

Promotor(s): prof. D.J. van Veldhuisen, prof. W.H. van Gilst, prof. A.A. Voors

Faculty: Medical Sciences

The aim of this study is twofold. We studied the effect of erythropoietin (Epo) on left ventricular function when given after an acute myocardial infarction and as a prognostic marker to gain more insight in the pathophysiological processes of chronic heart failure (HF). In conclusion, in patients with HF Epo levels are often elevated which is associated with an impaired prognosis. In HF, other factors than haemoglobin drive Epo levels, of which inflammatory factors and cardiac ischemia are interesting candidates.