title: Anemia and the potential role of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents in heart failure.
abstract: The recognition of the high prevalence and the independent prognostic role of anemia in heart failure (HF) has contributed to intensification of the search for an effective treatment. A central role of erythropoietin in cardiorenal anemia syndrome has been proposed. Several clinical trials have established the safety and efficacy of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents in correcting anemia in patients with HF. The recognition of the pleiotropic effect of erythropoietin has expanded targets of therapy. The ongoing outcomes trial with darbepoetin alfa will determine the role of this novel therapy in the treatment of HF.
authors.forename: Haroon A
authors.initials: HA
authors.lastname: Faraz
authors.forename: Syed F
authors.initials: SF
authors.lastname: Zafar
authors.forename: Jalal K
authors.initials: JK
authors.lastname: Ghali