Question

What is polycythemia?

1) too many rbcs
2) too few rbcs
3) not enough wbcs
4) just the right amount of rbcs

Answer 1

Polycythemia is the condition characterized by an elevated level of red blood cells (RBCs), which increases blood viscosity and can lead to cardiovascular strain.

Step-by-step explanation:

Polycythemia refers to the condition of having an elevated level of red blood cells (RBCs). This overproduction of RBCs increases the viscosity of the blood, making it thicker and more difficult for the heart to pump, which can raise blood pressure and strain the cardiovascular system. Polycythemia can be a transient condition due to dehydration or a chronic adaptation to living at high altitudes. In its pathological form, such as polycythemia vera, it is a bone marrow disease that can lead to serious complications. This contrasts with anemia, where there is a deficiency in the number of RBCs or hemoglobin in the body.