Do high levels of RBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and MCHC indicate polycythemia vera?

Question

Hello doctor,

I recently got my blood work done because of my symptoms. I have been feeling tired and having bone pain, nausea, and headaches. However, when I got my blood work back on the hematology section, my RBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and MCHC all came back abnormally high. I have had these symptoms intermittently for a year or two, but they have been consistent for a few months.

Is this something I should get checked out immediately?
Is this a sign of polycythemia vera?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I have checked your report (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). It also shows high levels of RBC (red blood cells), hematocrit, and hemoglobin levels. So your diagnosis is polycythemia. But it can also be secondary due to dehydration or respiratory or cardiac causes. So it should be ruled out so an EKG (electrocardiogram) and chest X-ray can be done.

To investigate for primary polycythemia, the following investigation is suggested.

1. Serum EPO (erythropoietin) estimation.

2. JAK2 and Exon 12 mutation study by FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization) or PCR (polymerase chain reaction) technique.

You can revert with reports. I suggest you consult a nearby physician or hematologist for examination once.

I hope this helps.