Six weeks of dynamic apnoeic training stimulates erythropoiesis but does not increase splenic volume

Purpose
This study examined the influence of dynamic apnoea training on splenic volume and haematological responses in non-breath-hold divers (BHD).

Methods
Eight non-BHD performed ten maximal dynamic apnoeas, four times a week for six weeks. Splenic volumes were assessed ultrasonically, and blood samples were drawn for full blood count analysis, erythropoietin, iron, ferritin, albumin, protein and osmolality at baseline, 24 h post the completion of each week’s training sessions and seven days post the completion of the training programme. Additionally, blood samples were drawn for haematology at 30, 90, and 180 min post session one, twelve and twenty-four.

Results
Erythropoietin was only higher than baseline (6.62 ± 3.03 mlU/mL) post session one, at 90 (9.20 ± 1.88 mlU/mL, p = 0.048) and 180 min (9.04 ± 2.35 mlU/mL, p = 0.046). Iron increased from baseline (18 ± 3 µmol/L) post week five (23 ± 2 µmol/L, p = 0.033) and six (21 ± 6 µmol/L; p = 0.041), whereas ferritin was observed to be lower than baseline (111 ± 82 µg/L) post week five (95 ± 75 µg/L; p = 0.016), six (84 ± 74 µg/L; p = 0.012) and one week post-training (81 ± 63 µg/L; p = 0.008). Reticulocytes increased from baseline (57 ± 12 × 109/L) post week one (72 ± 17 × 109/L, p = 0.037) and six (71 ± 17 × 109/L, p = 0.021) while no changes were recorded in erythrocytes (p = 0.336), haemoglobin (p = 0.124) and splenic volumes (p = 0.357).

Conclusions
Six weeks of dynamic apnoeic training increase reticulocytes without altering mature erythrocyte concentration and splenic volume.