What is Secondary Erythrocytosis?

Secondary Polycythemia
Too many erythrocytes(RBC's)
Secondary erythrocytosis is a rare disorder that causes an over-production of red blood cells. When too many red blood cells are being produced, the blood becomes thick, hindering its passage through the smaller blood vessels.


Causes

The function of a red blood cell is to deliver oxygen to the body tissues. Smoking interferes with this process, therefore it is a common cause of secondary erythrocytosis.

Others include:

  • Carbon monoxide poisoning
  • Chronic heart or lung disease
  • High altitude
  • Cysts of the kidneys
  • Brain, liver or uterine tumours

Symptoms

The symptoms of secondary erythrocytosis include the following:

  • Weakness
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Lightheadedness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Visual disturbances
  • Pruritis (itching)
  • Pain in the chest or leg muscles
  • Ruddy complexion
  • Confusion
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Burning of the hands or feet

It is advisable to consult a doctor as soon as possible if the above symptoms are experienced frequently as it is important to get diagnosed early.

Diagnosis

The doctor must first determine if the erythrocytosis is "primary" or "secondary".

Measuring oxygen levels in the blood with a blood test known as arterial blood gases (ABG's), can help doctors formulate a diagnose of secondary erythrocytosis. Other blood tests include measurement of erythropoietin and red blood cell mass levels.

Additional diagnostic tests may include:

  • Chest X-Ray
  • Electrocardiogram
  • Imaging studies to determine enlargement of the spleen or liver
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