Epistemis

Polyglobulia (plethora)

Specialty: Hematology.

  • red face
  • high hematocrit
  • plethora

Why it occurs

  • Smoking/COPD (hypoxia)
  • Polycythemia vera
  • Dehydration (relative)
  • SAHS

Initial workup

Repeated blood count, SatO₂, assess EPO and JAK2 if primary.

red flags

Headache, itching after showering, thrombosis or splenomegaly (polycythemia vera).

Standard management

  • Treat the cause + hydration — phlebotomy in polycythemia vera

Educational guidance for study. It is NOT a prescription recommendation. The actual choice depends on the cause, the patient, and current guidelines.

PreviousPaleness
Area
Hematology
Listed causes
4
Treatment options
1
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