Polycythemia: Diagnosis and Management in Primary Care
Introduction
Polycythemia is uncommon, but an elevated hemoglobin or hematocrit is often identified on a routine full blood count or during investigation of related symptoms. The initial task is to distinguish relative from absolute erythrocytosis and, if absolute erythrocytosis is present, to distinguish primary from secondary causes. Polycythemia vera must be excluded because timely diagnosis can prevent complications and relieve symptoms. This article provides a practical approach to investigating and managing the condition.