Secondary polycythemia is also called secondary erythrocytosis
Secondary polycythemia is an acquired form of a rare disorder characterized by an abnormal increase in the number of mature red cells in the blood. Secondary polycythemia is also called secondary erythrocytosis.
Types of secondary polycythemia. In smoker's polycythemia, the number of red blood cells is elevated. Plasma levels are abnormally low. Smoking, which impairs red blood cells' ability to deliver oxygen to body tissues, can cause secondary polycythemia
Secondary polycythemia is typically diagnosed through a combination of blood tests, physical examination, and medical history. Blood tests such as complete blood count (CBC) and erythropoietin levels can help determine red blood cell count and rule out other causes. Imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI may also be used to identify any underlying conditions that may be causing the increased red blood cell production.
Weakness, headaches, and fatigue are usually the first symptoms of secondary polycythemia. Patients may feel lightheaded or experience shortness of breath.Visual disturbances.Pain in the chest or leg muscles is common.(tinnitus ) may also occur.
Secondary polycythemia is treated primarily by treating the underlying condition causing the disorder. Some medications may also be taken to treat symptoms. Until the underlying condition is controlled, doctors use bloodletting (phlebotomy).
Secondary polycythemia is typically developed by individuals who have conditions that cause their bodies to produce too many red blood cells in response to low oxygen levels in the blood. This can be seen in people with chronic lung diseases, such as COPD, or conditions that affect oxygen delivery in the body, such as sleep apnea.
The prognosis of secondary polycythemia depends on the underlying cause. If the cause is identified and treated promptly, the prognosis is generally favorable. However, if left untreated, secondary polycythemia can lead to complications such as blood clots, strokes, or heart problems, which can affect long-term outcomes. Regular monitoring and management of the underlying condition are key to improving prognosis.
Relative polycythemia is a condition where there is a decrease in blood plasma volume, leading to an apparent increase in red blood cell count. This can be caused by dehydration, stress, or certain medical conditions. It is important to distinguish it from true polycythemia, which involves an increase in red blood cell production.
Polycythemia causes an increase in red blood cells. Polycthemia occurs when there is an over abundance of red blood cells made by the bone marrow or chronic low oxygen levels.
Secondary hypersplenism can be caused by various underlying conditions such as liver cirrhosis, infections (such as HIV or viral hepatitis), autoimmune disorders, or certain types of cancers. These conditions can stimulate the spleen to become enlarged and destroy blood cells prematurely, leading to hypersplenism.
Béla Bartók died of Leukaemia (secondary polycythemia) in New York on 26th September 1945