polycythemia
Pronunciation: pol-ee-sy-THEE-mee-ah
Abnormally high red blood cell concentration causing blood viscosity increase.
Full Definition
A condition characterized by an abnormally high concentration of red blood cells, typically defined in newborns as a hematocrit greater than 65% or hemoglobin greater than 22 g/dL. Neonatal polycythemia can result from intrauterine hypoxia, delayed cord clamping, maternal-fetal transfusion, or twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. The increased blood viscosity can impair circulation and lead to complications such as hypoglycemia, seizures, respiratory distress, and thrombosis. Treatment may include partial exchange transfusion to reduce the hematocrit to safer levels.
Usage
Usage note: Greek origin meaning 'many cells in blood'; note the 'y' in the middle syllable.
In Context
- "The term infant developed polycythemia with a hematocrit of 68% on day one of life." — Laboratory report
- "Partial exchange transfusion was performed to treat symptomatic polycythemia." — Treatment note