Erythrocytosis

Erythrocytosis: ED Focused Evaluation and Management

emDocs - May 24, 2017 - Author: Jeffers K - Edited by: Koyfman A and Long B

"Summary:

• Consult hematology early for recommendations, further evaluation, and definitive treatment.
• Secondary erythrocytosis is from numerous causes; a good history and physical will discover most of them! EPO level may be helpful for differentiation.
• Treatment of secondary erythrocytosis includes removal of offending cause and possibly phlebotomy.
• Consider PV in setting of elevated hemoglobin/hematocrit + symptoms (pruritus, headache, fatigue, difficulty thinking or sleeping, dizziness, hyperuricemia, and bleeding or thrombotic complications) especially in persons >60 years old.
• Initial treatment of PV includes phlebotomy (consult your specialist) and low-dose aspirin.
• Hyperviscosity syndrome: triad of bleeding, visual disturbances, and focal neurologic signs. Mainstay of treatment is hydration and hematology consult."