The extra cells cause the blood to be thicker and this in turn increases the risk of other health issues such as blood clots TYPES Primary polycythemia Secondary polycythemia Primary polycythemia is also called polycythemia vera PV ID: 1012025
Download Presentation The PPT/PDF document "DEFINITION Polycythemia is a blood diso..." is the property of its rightful owner. Permission is granted to download and print the materials on this web site for personal, non-commercial use only, and to display it on your personal computer provided you do not modify the materials and that you retain all copyright notices contained in the materials. By downloading content from our website, you accept the terms of this agreement.
1.
2. DEFINITION Polycythemia is a blood disorder in which the body produces too many blood cells as a result of a problem with the bone marrow or an increased production of the hormone erythropoietinThe extra cells cause the blood to be thicker, and this, in turn, increases the risk of other health issues, such as blood clots.
3. TYPES Primary polycythemiaSecondary polycythemia
4.
5. Primary polycythemia is also called polycythemia vera (PV).PV is a rare, slow growing blood cancer that is a type of condition known as a myeloproliferative neoplasm. PV causes the bone marrow to create excess precursor blood cells that develop and function abnormally, leading to the production of too many red blood cells
6. CAUSESbeing at a very high altitudeobstructive sleep apneacertain types of tumorheart or lung disease that causes a low oxygen level in the body
7. SYMPTOMSdizziness or vertigoheadachesexcessive sweatingitchy skinringing in the earsblurred visionfatigue
8. bleeding or bruisinga burning sensation in the feetabdominal fullnessfrequent nosebleedsbleeding gums
9. DIAGNOSISBlood testsBlood tests, such as a complete blood count, will reveal any increase in red blood cells in the bloodstream, as well as any abnormal levels of platelets and white blood cells. If PV seems possible, a doctor will order more specific blood tests.
10.
11. Bone marrow biopsyA bone marrow biopsy involves taking a small sample of the bone marrow with a needle for examination under a microscope.
12.
13. Genetic testingIf polycythemia vera is there, analysis of your bone marrow or blood might show the gene mutation that's associated with the disease
14. TREATMENTReducing the amount of blood in your body. Drawing some blood out of your veins in a procedure called phlebotomy is usually the main treatment for people with polycythemia vera. This decreases your blood volume and reduces the number of excess blood cells. How often you need to have blood drawn depends on the severity of your condition.
15. Medication to decrease blood cells. If phlebotomy alone doesn't help, medications that suppress your bone marrow's ability to produce blood cells, such as hydroxyurea (Droxia, Hydrea), might be used.Interferon alfa-2b (Intron A) may be used to stimulate your immune system to fight the overproduction of red blood cells. It might help people who don't respond well to hydroxyurea.
16. Medication to destroy cancer cells. Ruxolitinib (Jakafi) helps your immune system destroy cancer cells, and can improve some polycythemia vera symptoms.Busulfan (Busulfex, Myleran) is another medication that destroys cancer cells that may be prescribed if other treatments aren't working well.
17. MANAGEMENTSteps to Be Taken to feel better if diagnosed with polycythemia veraExercise. Moderate exercise, such as walking, can improve your blood flow. This helps decrease your risk of blood clots. Leg and ankle stretches and exercises also can improve your blood circulation.Avoid tobacco. Using tobacco can cause your blood vessels to narrow, increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke due to blood clots.
18. Avoid low-oxygen environments. Living at high altitudes, skiing or climbing in mountains all reduce the oxygen levels in your blood even further.Be good to your skin. To reduce itching, bathe in cool water, use a gentle cleanser and pat your skin dry. Adding starch, such as cornstarch, to your bath might help. Avoid hot tubs, heated whirlpools, and hot showers or baths.Try not to scratch, as it can damage your skin and increase the risk of infection. Use lotion to keep your skin moist.
19. Avoid extreme temperatures. Poor blood flow increases your risk of injury from hot and cold temperatures. In cold weather, always wear warm clothing, particularly on your hands and feet. In hot weather, protect yourself from the sun and drink plenty of liquids.Watch for sores. Poor circulation can make it difficult for sores to heal, particularly on your hands and feet. Inspect your feet regularly and tell your doctor about any sores.
20. THANK YOU