The analysis of the hemodynamic parameters involved in the regulation of blood pressure during correction of anemia shows - although peripheral resistance and cardiac output behave qualitatively as in the nonuremic patient - that the extent of change may be inadequate resulting in an increased blood pressure. The underlying mechanisms are not yet fully understood but to a greater part may be related to preexisting pathology due to a history of long-lasting hypertension. To avoid cardiovascular complications under rhEPO therapy the following should be considered: patients with a history of hypertension, even if they are normotensive in the anemic state, are at a higher risk for developing hypertension under rhEPO. Hypertensive complications may be rare events when anemia is corrected slowly. Further studies will demonstrate whether in addition to the benefit of a very low maintenance dose of rhEPO subcutaneous administration will also contribute to the reduction of the incidence of hypertension.