{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Diagnostic Evaluation of Polycythemia Vera at High Altitude.
{Author}: Alkhaldy HY;Algarni AM;Eisa N;Asiri HY;Alasiri HA;Assiri M;Alasmari S;Makkawi M;Yahya A;
{Journal}: Clin Lab
{Volume}: 70
{Issue}: 6
{Year}: 2024 Jun 1
{Factor}: 1.053
{DOI}: 10.7754/Clin.Lab.2023.231150
{Abstract}: <B>BACKGROUND: </B>Polycythemia is a common medical problem, frequently acquired and reactive to secondary conditions. High-altitude-associated hypoxia contributes to the greater prevalence of polycythemia at altitude. Primary clonal polycythemia vera (PV), even though it is rare, requires a different therapeutic approach. Suspicion of PV usually drives the diagnostic workup of polycythemia.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>In this retrospective lab record study, we collected all JAK2 tests requested over a three-year period. We analyzed requests that were made for the evaluation of polycythemia. Complete blood count (CBC) and imaging of the abdomen were collected.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Out of 208 total requests, 136 were for the purpose of polycythemia evaluation. JAK2 mutation was positive (confirming the presence of PV) in 22 (16.7%) cases. PV patients have the usual demographics reported elsewhere. Additionally, PV patients exhibit distinct hemogram results featuring leukocytosis, thrombocytosis, and hypochromic microcytic red blood cells (RBCs) related to the associated iron deficiency.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Many patients with polycythemia at altitude might be unnecessarily considered for an evaluation of PV, if hemoglobin/hematocrit is the sole deciding criterion. PV patients have a distinct CBC pattern that can be exploited to better select patients with polycythemia for further evaluation and thus reduce unnecessary workups.