POLYCYTHAEMIA RUBRA VERA

It is a disorder where too many red cells are produced in the bone marrow without any identifiable cause.

This is a malignant proliferation of a clone derived from one pluripotent marrow stem cell. The erythroid progenitor offspring are unusual in not needing erythropoietin to avoid apostosis.

There is excess proliferation of RBCs, WBCs, and platelets, leading to Hyper viscosity and thrombosis.

SIGNS: - may be asymptomatic and detected on FBC, or present with vague signs due to Hyper viscosity. Headache, dizziness, tinnitus, visual disturbance. Itch after a hot bath, and erythromelalgia, a burning sensation in fingers and toes, are characteristic.

• Examination may show facial plethora and splenomegaly.
• Gout may occur due to increased urate from RBC turnover.
• Features of arterial or venous thrombosis may be present.

INVESTIGATIONS: -

B12 increased. Increased Hemoglobin. Decreased serum erythropoietin. Raised red cell mass on CR 51 studies and splenomegaly, in the setting of a normal PaO2 is diagnostic.

COMPLICATIONS: - there may be blood clots, increased blood thickness, decreased blood flow, as well as abnormalities in platelets.

• Enlarged Spleen.
• Problems due to high level of RBCs.
• Other blood disorders.

CONCLUSION :- There are many Homoeopathic remedies which can help in managing the problems associated with Polycythaemia rubra vera and preventing their further complications