JAK2V617F detection and dosage of serum erythropoietin: first steps of the diagnostic work-up for patients consulting for elevated hematocrit.

The predictive values of common biological criteria for the diagnosis of polycythemia vera were studied in a cohort of patients with high hematocrit. We found JAK2V617F and erythropoietin assays were the most relevant first tests. Classification of patients according to their JAK2V617F status and erythropoietin levels facilitated the choice of further diagnostic investigations.