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Polycythaemia Vera
Medical Questions » Polycythaemia Vera
| Name: Polycythaemia Vera |
| Also known as: Polycythaemia Rubra Vera |
| Excess production of red blood cells that is most common in middle-aged to elderly, overweight men, but may occur in both sexes. Rare under 40 years of age. |
Causes of Polycythaemia Vera
Red blood cells are made in the bone marrow, primarily of the breastbone (sternum), pelvis and thighbone (femur). If the marrow becomes overactive, excessive numbers of cells may be produced. |
Symptoms of Polycythaemia Vera
Headache, dizziness, tiredness, blurred vision, generalized itching, noises in the ears, high blood pressure and an enlarged spleen. |
Tests for Polycythaemia Vera
Diagnosis confirmed by finding excess red blood cells in a blood test. Further tests on bone marrow determine the severity of the disease. |
Treatment for Polycythaemia Vera
Controlled, but not cured, by draining large quantities of blood out of a vein initially, and smaller amounts on a regular basis long term. Medications to reduce the activity of the bone marrow may also be used.
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Complications of Polycythaemia Vera of its treatment
Blood clots in vital organs (eg. brain to cause a stroke), and some patients develop a form of chronic leukemia. |
Likely Outcome of Polycythaemia Vera
Average survival time after diagnosis is twelve years. |
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