Polycythemia Vera
Alternate Names : Primary Polycythemia, Polycythemia Rubra Vera
How is the disease diagnosed?
The diagnosis of polycythemia vera may be suspected after a history and
physical exam. A blood test called a complete blood count (CBC) is the first step in making the diagnosis. This
test
counts the number of each of the kinds of blood cells. A person with
polycythemia vera has an elevated red blood cell count, and usually has
elevated white blood cell and platelet counts as well. Other blood tests, such
as a vitamin B12 level or an erythropoietin level, may also be done.
Often, a procedure called a bone marrow
biopsy is done to help confirm the diagnosis. This involves inserting a
special needle through the skin of the upper buttock area and into the pelvic
bone. The needle is used to take a sample of bone marrow, the soft material
found inside certain bones where blood cells are made. The sample of marrow can
be sent to the lab for examination and special testing.
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