Eritrocittá

Eritrocittá, also known as erythrocytosis or polycythemia, is a medical condition characterized by an abnormally high concentration of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the blood. This condition can arise due to various underlying causes and may lead to increased blood viscosity, which can affect circulation and increase the risk of thromboembolic events.

The condition can be classified broadly into two main types: primary and secondary erythrocytosis. Primary erythrocytosis, or polycythemia vera, is a chronic myeloproliferative disorder where the bone marrow produces an excessive number of red blood cells without an identifiable external cause. Secondary erythrocytosis, on the other hand, occurs in response to physiological stimuli such as chronic hypoxia (low oxygen levels), which can be due to conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congenital heart disease, or high-altitude living. Other causes include certain tumors (e.g., renal cell carcinoma) that produce erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production.

Symptoms of erythrocytosis may include fatigue, weakness, dizziness, headache, visual disturbances, itching (particularly after a hot bath or shower), and an enlarged spleen. Severe cases can lead to complications such as thrombosis, hemorrhage, or gout due to increased uric acid levels. Diagnosis typically involves a complete blood count (CBC) to measure hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, along with additional tests to determine the underlying cause, such as erythropoietin levels or genetic testing for conditions like polycythemia vera.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. For primary erythrocytosis, therapeutic phlebotomy (removal of blood) is commonly used to reduce red blood cell mass. Secondary erythrocytosis may be managed by addressing the root cause, such as treating hypoxia or removing tumors. In some cases, medications like hydroxyurea or interferon may be prescribed to inhibit red blood cell production. Regular monitoring is essential to manage symptoms and prevent complications.