American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What hemoglobin level should not be exceeded when dosing erythropoietin?

1. 10.5 g/dL

2. 11.0 g/dL

3. 11.5 g/dL

4. 12.0 g/dL

The correct answer is: 11.5 g/dL

When administering erythropoietin, it is crucial to carefully monitor hemoglobin levels to avoid the risk of serious adverse effects, such as thromboembolic events. The correct upper limit of hemoglobin when dosing erythropoietin is 11.5 g/dL. This threshold is established based on clinical guidelines which indicate that hemoglobin should not be raised beyond this level to minimize risks associated with increased blood viscosity and the potential for hypertension and thrombosis. Maintaining a hemoglobin level at or below this threshold allows healthcare providers to effectively manage anemia in patients without posing unnecessary risks. Regular monitoring and adjustments to the erythropoietin dosage should be made to ensure that hemoglobin levels are kept within a safe range, thereby maximizing the therapeutic benefits while minimizing potential complications.