Leonid L Yavorkovsky1. 1. Department of Oncology, Kaiser Permanente San Jose Medical Center, San Jose, CA.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The landmark value of mean corpuscular volume (MCV) in the diagnosis and classification of anemias has been established more than a century ago. In contrast, the importance of MCV assessment in patients with elevated hemoglobin and hematocrit is not nearly as appreciated. CASE PRESENTATION: This case describes a patient who exhibited long-standing macrocytosis (elevated MCV) that contributed to elevated hemoglobin and hematocrit levels thus mimicking a diagnosis of polycythemia vera. CONCLUSION: The case demonstrates that discounting the MCV effect on hemoglobin/hematocrit levels can lead to potential errors in interpretation of blood tests and misdiagnosis.
INTRODUCTION: The landmark value of mean corpuscular volume (MCV) in the diagnosis and classification of anemias has been established more than a century ago. In contrast, the importance of MCV assessment in patients with elevated hemoglobin and hematocrit is not nearly as appreciated. CASE PRESENTATION: This case describes a patient who exhibited long-standing macrocytosis (elevated MCV) that contributed to elevated hemoglobin and hematocrit levels thus mimicking a diagnosis of polycythemia vera. CONCLUSION: The case demonstrates that discounting the MCV effect on hemoglobin/hematocrit levels can lead to potential errors in interpretation of blood tests and misdiagnosis.
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