How is polycythemia diagnosed?
Polycythemia may be diagnosed incidentally on routine blood work. Hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cell concentration are typically found on a complete blood count (CBC). Repeating the laboratory tests (blood work) to confirm the diagnosis is usually advised to rule out possible laboratory or drawing errors.Click to see full answer. Also asked, how do they…
Polycythemia may be diagnosed incidentally on routine blood work. Hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cell concentration are typically found on a complete blood count (CBC). Repeating the laboratory tests (blood work) to confirm the diagnosis is usually advised to rule out possible laboratory or drawing errors.Click to see full answer. Also asked, how do they test for polycythemia vera?To diagnose PV, your doctor will perform a test called a complete blood count (CBC) to see if your number of red blood cells is higher than normal. Your doctor may also test your blood to look for amounts of a hormone called erythropoietin. Lower-than-normal levels of this hormone can be a sign of PV.Similarly, how long does it take to diagnose polycythemia vera? High numbers for hemoglobin, hematocrit, or blood cell count can all be signs of PV. The CBC takes only a few minutes. Your doctor puts a thin needle into your arm, usually near your elbow, and draws blood. You may have results in 1-2 days, but it can take longer. Also Know, what are the signs and symptoms of polycythemia? The signs and symptoms of PV include: Headaches, dizziness, and weakness. Shortness of breath and problems breathing while lying down. Feelings of pressure or fullness on the left side of the abdomen due to an enlarged spleen (an organ in the abdomen) Double or blurred vision and blind spots. How is polycythemia treated? Treatment Reducing the amount of blood in your body. Drawing some blood out of your veins in a procedure called phlebotomy is usually the main treatment for people with polycythemia vera. Medication to decrease blood cells. Medication to destroy cancer cells.
