Comparing Reticulocyte Hemoglobin and Transferrin Saturation to Guide Iron Treatment in People on Dialysis

Launched by KING CHULALONGKORN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL · Mar 26, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the best way to guide iron treatment for adults with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) who are undergoing hemodialysis and have anemia. The researchers want to find out if using a specific blood test called reticulocyte hemoglobin (RET-He) to direct iron treatment is just as effective as the more traditional method, which uses transferrin saturation (TSAT). They will look at important health outcomes, like whether patients experience complications such as heart problems, infections, or the need for blood transfusions.

To be eligible for this trial, participants must be adults aged 18 to 80 who have been on hemodialysis for at least six months and have been receiving a medication called erythropoietin to treat anemia. They should have low hemoglobin levels, which is a sign of anemia. During the trial, participants will receive intravenous (IV) iron based on either their RET-He or TSAT levels, and their health will be monitored through blood tests and assessments over six months. This study aims to find the best way to manage anemia in patients on dialysis, helping to improve their overall health outcomes.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Adult (age 18-80 years)
• • ESKD on chronic hemodialysis ≥ 6 months
• • EPO therapy ≥ 6 months
• • Hb \< 13.0 g/dL in male, \< 12.0 g/dL in female
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Serum ferritin \> 800 ng/mL or TSAT \> 40%
• • Active infection or malignancy
• • Hematologic disease including thalassemia major, hemolysis, myelofibrosis or myelodysplastic disease
• • History of marrow suppressive or immunosuppressive medications in past 6 months
• • History of active heart failure and recent myocardial infarction /stroke in past 6 months
• • History of GI or external bleeding or receiving blood transfusion in past 6 months