ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7ScienceMedium
A patient undergoing cancer treatment develops severe anemia due to impaired red blood cell production. To stimulate the bone marrow to produce more erythrocytes, a synthetic form of which hormone would most likely be administered?
- AErythropoietin
- BGrowth hormone
- CThyroxine
- DInsulin
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Erythropoietin
Erythropoietin (EPO) is a hormone primarily produced by the kidneys that stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells (erythrocytes). In cases of anemia due to impaired production, synthetic EPO can be administered to boost red blood cell count.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Growth hormone promotes general tissue growth but is not the primary stimulator for erythropoiesis.
- C. Thyroxine (thyroid hormone) regulates metabolism but does not directly stimulate erythropoiesis.
- D. Insulin regulates blood glucose and has no direct role in red blood cell production.
Erythropoietin (EPO)
A hormone, primarily produced by the kidneys, that stimulates the production of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the bone marrow.
- Released in response to hypoxia (low oxygen levels).
- Crucial for maintaining adequate oxygen-carrying capacity of blood.
- Synthetic forms are used to treat anemia, especially in kidney disease.
Memory trick: EPO for Erythrocytes, Kidneys are Key.