Common virus may cause anemia in patients with kidney disease

Kidneys from most patients with chronic kidney disease in a new study were positive for active cytomegalovirus infection. Patients with higher levels of anti-cytomegalovirus antibodies in their blood had lower number of red blood cells. Cytomegalovirus blocks a protein needed to make a hormone that in turn stimulates red blood cell production.
Source: ScienceDaily Headlines - Category: Science Source Type: news