
Suggest Treatment For Polycythemia

Takes 3-4 800 mg ibuprofen 3-5 days a week for last two yrs. bad stomachache, anorexic. His MD wants MRI. Had ultrasound today but no info on findings. No liver bx, just blood work. All I know
Ok, found out 20 yo male, weight lifter without steroid use. Abdominal pain for one year. As I said, MRI REQUESTED. Lab work indicated a very high red blood cell count and all this kid remembered via phone conversation is that liver was mentioned. I realize this is scant info to go by, just wondering what your gut tells you. Thankyou, do the best you can with minimal info. XXXXXXX
Needs work up and management for polycythemia.
Detailed Answer:
Thank you for asking
I read your question and i understand your cocnern. Red blood cells have a normal reference range of 4.2 to 5.4 million cells per microliter. Raised count than this upper limit needs further work up. It could be normal physiological finding if you are living at higher altitude from sea levels , in that case nothing to worry about. Many other cases like dehydration can lead to hemoconcentration. The clinical term used for raised red blood cells is called polycythemia. At age of 58 secondary causes of raised blood cells like lungs and heart diseases, kidney diseases or use of anabolic steroids should be evaluated. If you have any gastric discomfort or your body itch when taking hot shower then work up for polycythemia vera a pathological cause should be proceeded with , JAk 2 mutation tests can be performed.
As far as liver is concerned, that might be presenting some other explanation, only can be commented on if report is available. Consult your hematologist and let them clinically correlate your polycythemia symptoms.
I hope it helps. Take good care of yourself and dont forget to close the discussion please.
Regards
Khan

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