Hematology Case Studies CASE 1: A 62-year-old male complained of weakness, heada

Question

Hematology Case Studies CASE 1: A 62-year-old male complained of weakness, headache, light-headedness, and fatigue. Upon physical examination, the following information was available: Erythrocytes 8.5 million/cu mm Leukocytes 12,500/cu mm Thrombocytes 400,000/cu mm Hct 58% O2 saturation (arterial) 94% Serum erythropoietin Undetectable Other information: The erythrocytes and leukocytes were immature in the peripheral blood smear. The spleen was enlarged. The determined therapy of choice was phlebotomy, 300-500 mL every other day, until the hematocrit was <45% with the possibility of myelosuppressive therapy, if needed. Questions:

1. What is the disorder of this individual and Why are the arterial O2 saturation and erythropoietin levels important in making this decision?

Explanation / Answer

1. ANS:

The disorder of this individual is polycythemia.

Polycythemia: It is an abnormal disorder, In which blood cells are highly increased (primary RBC). It is mainly happens due to the results from excess blood cells production by bone marrow.

2. ANS:

The arterial O2 saturation and erythropoietin levels importantance :

The arterial O2 saturation and erythropoietin levels are can plays a vital role in confirming that the increased hematocrit is not due to hypoxemia or an abnormally elevated erythropoietin level. The O2 saturation level would indicate if there is a physiologic stimulus for the increased erythrocyte production.

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