Causes of Polycythemia (Erythrocytosis) - Differential Diagnosis Algorithm

Relative - Normal RBC Mass / Decreased Plasma Volume

 • Burns

 • Diarrhea

 • Dehydration

 • Idiopathic

JAK-2 Positive - Low/Normal Erythropoietin, O2 Saturation > 90%, Splenomegaly, Increased PMNs

 • Polycythemia Vera

Erythropoietin Secreting Tumor - O2 Saturation 90%, Abnormal Abdominal Ultrasound

High Affinity Hemoglobin - O2 Saturation > 90%, Increased carboxyhemoglobin, Abnormal P450 determination, Smoking, positive Family History, early onset

 • Congenital Hemoglobinopathy

 • Familial Polycythemia

 • Carboxyhemoglobin

Heart Murmur, Cyanosis without Pulmonary Disease

 • Cyanotic Heart Disease

Abnormal Chest X-Ray, Shortness of Breath, Cough, Smoking, Snoring Chronic Chest Symptoms

 • Sleep Apnea

 • Chronic Pulmonary Disease



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