The stimulatory effect of spa therapy on erythropoiesis is well documented. The present study aimed to elucidate the pathogenesis of this effect. The influence of spa therapy on plasma erythropoietin and erythropoiesis was studied in four groups of patients: 35 patients with essential hypertension, 35 patients with inflammatory renal diseases at a stabilized stage and normal excretory renal function. 25 patients with gastrointestinal pathology or cholelithiasis and 33 patients with neurovegetative neurosis. Spa therapy for 20 days in Wysowa was accompanied by a significant increase of plasma erythropoietin, iron, ferritin and saturation of transferrin with iron and by an increase of blood haemoglobin and haematocrit value. These alterations were especially marked in patients with essential hypertension.

CONCLUSIONS:

1. Spa therapy exerts a stimulatory effect on erythropoiesis caused, among other factors, by increased erythropoietin secretion and iron mobilization. 2. This stimulatory effect is especially marked in patients with essential hypertension.