Polycythemia Reflection
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Polycythemia Reflection
Polycythemia is a condition in which the bone marrow produces an excessive number of red blood cells, resulting in a rise in blood hemoglobin, hematocrit, and hemoglobin. It might also cause an overabundance of white blood cells and platelets.
Polycythemia is characterized by a rise in the generation of all cell types, particularly RBCs, WBCs, and platelets. It is induced by neoplastic RBC development and maturation, as well as megakaryocytic and granulocytic components, resulting in panmyelosis. PCV is related with a low blood level of the chemical erytropoietin, in comparison to secondary polycythemias (Tefferi et al., 2018). Instead, PCV cells contain a variation in the tyrosin kinase (JAK2), which is involved in EPOreceptor signal transduction, making them susceptible to EPO. Individuals with solitary splenomegaly, erythrocytosis, or leukocytosis may be asymptomatic at the start of treatment. Several patients, nevertheless, experience symptoms when their hematocrit, platelet count, or both rises. In 50 percent to 60 percent of patients, an increased white blood cell (WBC) count is discovered. Hyperviscosity is characterized by headaches, blurred vision, and plethora, which are all symptoms of a high hematocrit.
The goal of treatment is to reduce the thickness of the blood and prevent bleeding and clotting. A method called phlebotomy is used to decrease blood thickness. One unit of blood (about 1 pint) is removed weekly until the hematocrit level is less than 45 (males) or 42 (females). Then therapy is continued as needed (Tefferi et al., 2018). Occasionally, chemotherapy (specifically hydroxyurea) may be given to reduce the number of red blood cells made by the bone marrow. Interferon is also used to treat low blood counts. To reduce platelet counts, a drug called anagrelide may be prescribed. Aspirin is prescribed to certain patients to help prevent blood clots, but it also raises the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Ultraviolet-B light treatment can help some people with serious itching.
References
Tefferi, A., Vannucchi, A. M., & Barbui, T. (2018). Polycythemia vera treatment algorithm 2018. Blood cancer journal, 8(1), 1-7.