Hyperviscositiy syndrome Flashcards
1
Q
What are the symptoms of hyper viscosity
A
Lethargy Confusion Decreased cognition CNS disturbance Chest pain Abdo pain - GI/GU bleeding Faints Decreased vision Amaurosis fugax Retinopathy - engorged retinal veins, haemorrhages, exudates, blurred disc
2
Q
What can cause high blood viscosity
A
Very high RBC count - haematocrit >50 in conditions such as polycythaemia vera
Very high WCC - >100, such as in leukaemia
Plasma components such as immunoglobulins in myeloma and waldenstroms macroglobinemia
Drugs - COPC, Diuretics, IVIG, chemo, radio-contrast media
3
Q
What is the treatment for Hyperviscositiy
A
Treat the cause urgently
Venesection in polycythaemia
Leukapharesis in leukaemia
Plasmapheresis in myeloma and waldenstroms
