Excessive Erthrocytosis (too Many RBCs)

Your Path

  • Excessive Erthrocytosis (too many RBCs)

Etiology

  • Primary bone marrow problem→ polycythemia vera
  • Secondary process→ testosterone supplementation, renal/liver/splenic cancer, inappropriate use of epo, chronic hypxemia, osa

Symptoms

  • Mi
  • Stroke
  • Tia
  • Headache
  • Hepatic vein or other venous clot in unusual location or otherwise unexplained
  • Mesenteric ischemia
  • Other arterial insufficiency from sludging
  • Itching exacerbated by hot shower
  • Sometimes bleeding

Physical Exam Findings

  • Splenomegaly
  • Hepatomegaly
  • Ruddy complexion