Question

An increased PCV may be the result of

a. dehydration.
b. low blood-to-anticoagulant ratio.
c. anemia.
d. excessive plasma because of inadequate mixing of the sample.

Answer 1

An increased PCV can be caused by a. dehydration, polycythemia vera, or training at high altitudes. These conditions lead to a rise in the PCV, which measures the volume of red blood cells in the blood.

Step-by-step explanation:

An increased PCV (Packed Cell Volume) may be the result of:

1. Dehydration: When water intake is inadequate or water losses are excessive, plasma volume falls and PCV rises.
2. Polycythemia vera: A bone marrow disease that causes excessive production of immature red blood cells, leading to an elevated PCV.
3. High altitudes or elite athletic training: Chronic but normal in people living at high altitudes or induced in elite athletes, leading to an increased PCV.