A Study of Once-Monthly Subcutaneous Mircera for the Treatment of Chronic Renal Anemia in Pre-Dialysis Patients Not Currently Treated With ESA.

An Open Label Study of the Safety, Tolerability and Effect on Hemoglobin Levels of Once-monthly Subcutaneous Mircera in Predialysis Patients With Chronic Renal Anemia Not Currently Treated With ESA.

This single arm study will assess the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous Mircera for the correction and maintenance of hemoglobin levels in predialysis patients with renal anemia who are not currently treated with ESA. Eligible patients will receive monthly subcutaneous injections at an initial recommended dose of 1.2 micrograms/kg. The anticipated time on study treatment is 3-12 months, and the target sample size is 100-500 individuals.

Inclusion Criteria:

• adult patients, >=18 years of age;
• chronic renal anemia;
• no ESA therapy during previous 3 months;
• adequate iron status;
• rapid chronic kidney disease progression.

Exclusion Criteria:

• transfusion of red blood cells during previous 2 months;
• poorly controlled hypertension requiring hospitalization in previous 6 months;
• significant acute or chronic bleeding.