Health care outcomes case study: anemia in end-stage renal disease

Outcomes goals in managing anemia in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) with epoetin alfa and other therapies are illustrated with a case study. Anemia is common in patients with ESRD undergoing hemodialysis; the cause is primarily a reduction in the secretion of erythropoietin. Multiple coexisting factors, such as iron deficiency and blood loss, also contribute. Outcomes goals include decreasing blood transfusions, increasing physical performance, improving cardiovascular and cognitive function, enhancing overall well-being, and achieving self-sufficiency. The potential to achieve these goals has been linked to the attainment of an optima, hematocrit and hemoglobin concentration with epoetin alfa therapy. Once epoetin alfa is begun, safety and effectiveness should be monitored and attainment of outcomes goals assessed. Supplemental iron, folate, and cyanocobalamin may be necessary, as may management of the underlying inflammatory process. The pharmacist can help optimize outcomes by conducting drug-use evaluations, monitoring laboratory test values and drug dosages, assessing drug effectiveness, and counseling patients. A case study of a 67-year-old woman with diabetes mellitus and ESRD who was placed on hemodialysis is presented as an example of how the pharmacist can help optimize outcomes. Opportunities for pharmacists in outcomes management in patients with ESRD-associated anemia include monitoring epoetin alfa therapy, counseling patients, and working with the renal team.