What is polycythemia and its types?

There are 2 main types: primary polycythaemia – there’s a problem in the cells produced by the bone marrow that become red blood cells; the most common type is known as polycythaemia vera (PV) secondary polycythaemia – too many red blood cells are produced as the result of an underlying condition.

What are the three types of polycythemia?

What causes polycythemia?

  • Primary polycythemia. Primary polycythemia is also called polycythemia vera (PV).
  • Secondary polycythemia. Secondary polycythemia can occur if the increase in red blood cells is not due to the myeloproliferative disease of PV.
  • Risk factors.

What do you mean by polycythemia?

Listen to pronunciation. (PAH-lee-sy-THEE-mee-uh VAYR-uh) A disease in which there are too many red blood cells in the bone marrow and blood, causing the blood to thicken. The number of white blood cells and platelets may also increase.

What are the complications of polycythemia?

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.

What is MCHC vs MCH?

MCH quantifies the amount of hemoglobin per red blood cell. The normal values for MCH are 29 ± 2 picograms (pg) per cell. MCHC indicates the amount of hemoglobin per unit volume. In contrast to MCH, MCHC correlates the hemoglobin content with the volume of the cell.

What are the signs of polycythemia?

What are the symptoms of polycythemia vera?

  • Lack of energy (fatigue) or weakness.
  • Headache.
  • Dizziness.
  • Shortness of breath and trouble breathing while lying down.
  • Vision problems, such as double vision, blurred vision, and blind spots.
  • Inability to concentrate.
  • Night sweats.
  • Face and becomes red and warm (flushed)

What is the main cause of death in polycythemia?

Blood clots are the most common cause of death in people with PV. When blood clots form in blood vessels, they can block the flow of blood to vital organs. This can lead to life threatening complications, such as stroke, heart attack, and venous thrombosis.