A condition in which there is an abnormal increase in the number of red blood cells
Polycythemia, derived from poly (many) and cythemia (cells in the blood), is a condition defined as an abnormal increase in the red blood cell (RBC) mass. For a normal healthy adult, the RBC mass is 23 to 29 mL/kg in females and 26 to 32 mL/kg in males. Patients with hematocrit values greater than 51% and 48% and hemoglobin values greater than 185g/L and 165 g/L in males and females, respectively, usually have an elevated RBC mass. Polycythemia is not synonymous with erythrocytosis. Absolute erythrocytosis is defined as an RBC mass greater than 125% of the predicted value adjusted for gender and body weight. Show
Absolute or true erythrocytosis differentiates from relative polycythemia, where the hematocrit is increased, but the red cell mass lies within the normal range. The elevated hematocrit can be due to the contracted plasma volume. An elevated erythropoietin (EPO) level, usually as a secondary response to chronic hypoxemia, leads to secondary polycythemia. Chronic hypoxemia can be secondary to various conditions, including lung pathologies like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), airway pathologies like obstructive sleep apnea as well as muscular abnormalities like obesity hypoventilation syndrome. Polycythemia vera is a rare blood disorder in which there is an increase in all blood cells, particularly red blood cells. The increase in blood cells makes your blood thicker. This can lead to strokes or tissue and organ damage. Polycythemia vera is
caused by a genetic change (mutation) that develops during your lifetime. It is not an inherited genetic disorder. In most cases it is not known why this happens. When you have more blood and it is thicker than normal, problems can occur. Each person’s symptoms may vary. Symptoms may include: These symptoms may look like other blood disorders or health problems. Always
see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. How is polycythemia vera diagnosed?Your healthcare provider will take your medical history and give you a physical exam. Your provider may also do blood tests. These tests will check the increased number of red blood cells in your body. They will also check if there are other conditions that could cause your higher red blood cell count. How is polycythemia vera treated?Your healthcare provider will figure out the best treatment based on:
Treatment may include:
What are the complications of polycythemia vera?Polycythemia vera can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated. It can cause blood clots resulting in a heart attack, stroke, or pulmonary embolism. Liver and spleen enlargement are other possible complications. Living with polycythemia veraThere is no cure for polycythemia vera, but proper treatment can help to reduce or delay any problems. Work with your healthcare provider to create a treatment plan that fits your needs. You should also be physically active in order to increase your heart rate and improve your blood flow. Other ways to improve your blood flow include:
You should also avoid situations in which you could be hurt, and check your feet for any sores. Key points about polycythemia vera
Next stepsTips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:
Which condition has an increased number of red blood cells?Polycythemia. Polycythemia, or erythrocytosis, is a condition in which the body has an increased number of RBCs. The extra blood cells can make the blood thicker and lead to difficulties with blood flow, which can increase the risk of other health issues. Polycythemia may be primary or secondary.
Which term describes an abnormal increase in the number of red blood cells in the blood group of answer choices?Polycythemia, also called erythrocytosis, refers to an increase in red blood cell mass, noted on laboratory evaluation as increased hemoglobin and hematocrit levels.
What are abnormal red blood cells?The term poikilocytosis refers to a condition where 10% or more of the red blood cells are abnormally shaped due to other medical conditions. These cells may have point-like projections or may include shapes that are flat, elongated, teardrop, or in the shape of a sickle or crescent.
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