Is erythropoietin a worthy candidate for traumatic brain injury or are we heading the wrong way? [version 1; referees: 2 approved]

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and disability in the modern society. Although primary prevention is the only strategy that can counteract the primary brain damage, numerous preclinical studies have been accumulated in order to find therapeutic strategies against the seconda...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Giovanni Grasso, Concetta Alafaci, Pietro Ghezzi
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: F1000 Research Ltd 2016-05-01
Series:F1000Research
Subjects:
Online Access:http://f1000research.com/articles/5-911/v1
Description
Summary:Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and disability in the modern society. Although primary prevention is the only strategy that can counteract the primary brain damage, numerous preclinical studies have been accumulated in order to find therapeutic strategies against the secondary damage. In this scenario erythropoietin (EPO) has been shown to be a promising candidate as neuroprotective agent. A recent clinical trial, however, has shown that EPO has not an overall effect on outcomes following TBI thus renewing old concerns.  However, the results of a prespecified sensitivity analysis indicate that the effect of EPO on mortality remains still unclear. In the light of these observations, further investigations are needed to resolve doubts on EPO effectiveness in order to provide a more solid base for tailoring conclusive clinical trials.
ISSN:2046-1402