A 68-year-old female is admitted to the emergency room with a diagnosis of polycythemia vera. Her symptoms are mainly the result of:
A) a decreased erythrocyte count.
B) rapid blood flow to the major organs.
C) increased blood viscosity.
D) neurologic injury.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Polycythemia vera is a condition in which there is an increased production of red blood cells, leading to increased blood viscosity. This can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and increased risk of blood clots. Decreased erythrocyte count (A) would not be expected in this condition, and rapid blood flow to the major organs (B) is not a typical symptom. Neurologic injury (D) may occur as a result of increased blood viscosity, but it is not the main symptom of polycythemia vera.

A 68-Year-Old Female Is Admitted to the Emergency Room with a Diagnosis