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Description

Relative polycythemia is a condition in which the number of red blood cells in the body is higher than normal, but the amount of hemoglobin and hematocrit are within the normal range. It is caused by a decrease in the amount of plasma in the blood, which causes the red blood cells to become more concentrated. This condition is usually caused by dehydration, smoking, high altitude, or certain medications. It can also be caused by certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, heart failure, or liver disease. Treatment for relative polycythemia usually involves increasing the amount of fluids in the body, and avoiding the underlying cause.

Synonyms

• Gaisbock syndrome
• relative polycythemia
• stress polycythemia

Basic Lab Tests (measurements)

• serum
  •      cholesterol
• whole blood
  •      erythrocytes
  •      hemoglobin
  •      hematocrit

Detailed Disease and Condition Information (use the search buttons below to find details on these topics)
All of the following must be considered when interpreting clinical findings and are too extensive to be covered on this site: