What is the function of polycythemia?
Polycythemia vera (pol-e-sy-THEE-me-uh VEER-uh) is a type of blood cancer. It causes your bone marrow to make too many red blood cells. These excess cells thicken your blood, slowing its flow, which may cause serious problems, such as blood clots.
What will polycythemia vera result in?
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.
What causes compensatory polycythemia?
Causes of polycythemia It occurs when hemoglobin is not able to pick up large amounts of oxygen from the lungs (i.e., when it is not “saturated”). This may result from decreased atmospheric pressure, as at high altitudes, or from impaired pulmonary ventilation.
Is there a cure or treatment for polycythemia?
The treatment of polycythemia involves treating any underlying conditions, if possible, and finding ways to bring blood cell levels down. In this article, learn more about the causes of polycythemia, as well as the symptoms and treatment options.
What happens to red blood cells in polycythemia?
Polycythemia refers to an increase in the number of red blood cells in the body. The extra cells cause the blood to be thicker, and this, in turn, increases the risk of other health issues, such as blood clots.
What kind of blood test do you need for polycythemia?
Blood tests, such as a complete blood count, will reveal any increase in red blood cells in the bloodstream, as well as any abnormal levels of platelets and white blood cells. If PV seems possible, a doctor will order more specific blood tests. If necessary, the doctor may also want to remove some bone marrow on which to perform tests in a lab.
How are high platelet counts treated in polycythemia patients?
Patients who have a history of blood clotting or very high platelet counts are treated with myelosuppressive drugs, such as hydroxyurea. During myelosuppressive therapy the patient is informed about adverse effects that may occur, assessed for leukopenia and thrombocytopenia, and protective measures are taught and instituted.