Erythrocytosis
Erythrocytosis
Erythrocytosis (pronounced: eh-rith-roh-sigh-toh-sis) is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal increase in the number of red blood cells, or erythrocytes, in the body.
Etymology
The term 'Erythrocytosis' is derived from the Greek words 'erythros' meaning red, and 'kytos' meaning hollow, referring to the red blood cells. The suffix '-osis' indicates an abnormal condition or disease.
Definition
Erythrocytosis is a condition in which the body produces too many red blood cells. This can make the blood thicker and cause complications such as blood clots. It is often associated with genetic disorders but can also be caused by factors such as living at high altitudes, smoking, or certain types of tumors.
Symptoms
Symptoms of erythrocytosis can include fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and a reddish complexion. In severe cases, it can lead to more serious complications such as stroke or heart attack.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of erythrocytosis typically involves blood tests to measure the number of red blood cells and the level of hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen in the blood. Further tests may be needed to determine the underlying cause of the condition.
Treatment
Treatment for erythrocytosis depends on the underlying cause. It may involve medication to reduce the number of red blood cells, lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, or in some cases, phlebotomy - a procedure to remove some of the blood from the body.
Related Terms
- Polycythemia: A related condition in which the body produces too many of all types of blood cells, not just red blood cells.
- Anemia: The opposite condition, in which the body does not produce enough red blood cells.
- Hemoglobin: The protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
- Erythropoiesis: The process by which the body produces red blood cells.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Erythrocytosis
- Wikipedia's article - Erythrocytosis
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