September 30, 2015 - SG - Polycythemia

Question 1

Polycythemia Scheme

Answer 1

Question 2

Relative Polycythemia

Answer 2

A change in volume that makes hemoglobin appear elevated.

Question 3

True/Real Polycythemia

Answer 3

Elevated RBC mass.

Can either be JAK-2 positive or negative.

Question 4

Polycythemia Vera

Answer 4

An example of a true elevated RBC mass. Characterised by an increase in RBC and often WBC and platelets as well. JAK-2 is positive and there is normal/low erythropoietin levels along with oxygen saturation of >90%. Usually accompanied by splenomegaly.

Question 5

JAK-2 Negative Results

Answer 5

Be thinking of hypoxia causes such as heart disease, COPD, sleep apnea.

O2 saturation is less than 90%.

Question 6

EPO-Secreting Tumor

Answer 6

Can cause an elevation in RBC count. This would often be JAK-2 negative.

Question 7

Treatment for PV

Answer 7

Low dose ASA

Hydroxyurea if platelets >1000 or age > 60

Phlebotomy

Question 8

Bone Marrow Biopsy and PV

Answer 8

Would show hypercellular bone marrow.