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Medical Emergencies · single question

Polycythemia vera is best characterized by which finding?

  1. Increased red blood cell mass with elevated hematocrit and risk of thrombosis
  2. Isolated low platelet count
  3. Decreased hemoglobin (anemia)
  4. Elevated white cells only with no red cell change
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Correct answer: A. Increased red blood cell mass with elevated hematocrit and risk of thrombosis

Polycythemia vera is a myeloproliferative disorder with overproduction of red cells (and often platelets/white cells), causing high hematocrit, hyperviscosity, and thrombosis risk.Other options: Low platelets, anemia, or isolated leukocytosis do not define polycythemia vera.Key exam takeaway: Polycythemia vera = elevated red cell mass/hematocrit, hyperviscosity, and thrombotic risk.

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