With erythrocytosis, the blood thickens because more cells are packed into the same plasma fluid.
This article discusses symptoms of erythrocytosis and how the different types are diagnosed.
It explains how erythrocytosis is treated as well as complications of the disorder.
Johner Images / Getty Images
Johner Images / Getty Images
What Is Erythrocytosis?
Hematocrit Levels and Erythrocytosis
Erythrocytosis causes high levels of high levels of hematocrit and/or hemoglobin.
As a result, blood is thicker and less able to travel through blood vessels and organs.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Types of Erythrocytosis
There are two pathways that cause erythrocytosis to occur.
Absolute types can have either primary or secondary causes.
This acceleration can be due to chronichypoxia, in which low oxygen levels occur in tissues.
Causes are many and can include heart and lung disease, an infection, or an underlying anemia.
For example, blood clots are common with PV.
Other symptoms include:
Other symptoms can include bone pain, an enlarged spleen, and excessive sweating.
These causes are either primary or secondary in nature.
Causes of Primary Erythrocytosis
Polycythemia vera is the most common cause of acquired erythrocytosis.
Causes of Secondary Erythrocytosis
Certain injuries or underlying health conditions can lead to a secondary erythrocytosis.
Factors that cause the kidneys to produce more erythropoietin also can includecarbon monoxideexposure and steroid use.
Do Lifestyle Factors Play a Role in Erythrocytosis?
Benzene exposure also may present a risk.
Diagnosis of Erythrocytosis
Erthyrocytosis is diagnosed by using a number of tests.
Does Erythrocytosis Cause Cancer?
Erythrocytosis is associated with some cancer types but it is rarely the cause.
However, some people develop a complication calledmyelofibrosis,a scarring of the bone marrow.
Over time, the changes in blood cell production can lead to acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
There are currently no treatments to reduce this risk.
Other treatment options can include medications to prevent blood clots.
These are not used in patients with erythrocytosis due to other causes.
When a Medical Emergency Needs Immediate Care
Some complications of erythrocytosis are serious and can be life-threatening.
Complications such asleukocytosis(high white blood cell counts) or thrombotic clots can affect prognosis, too.
Summary
Erythrocytosis is a condition in which your blood contains too many red blood cells.
Conditions like PV and its complications may increase your symptoms and the need for treatment.
Lifestyle changes, like weight control, also can help.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
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