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What are the causes of elevated Hb and RBC levels?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 39-year-old male. I have had high hemoglobin, and RBC levels for the past six months. I have undergone many tests and am waiting for a diagnosis. Currently, I am taking Aspirin. What could it be?

Please advise.

Answered by Dr. Ayesha Khanum

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ayesha Khanum is a dedicated Pediatric Hematology specialist known for her compassionate, patient-centered approach to complex blood disorders in children. She focuses on accurate diagnosis, individualized treatment, and long-term care to support healthy growth and development. With deep clinical expertise and a calm, reassuring manner, Dr. Khanum is committed to improving outcomes and quality of life for young patients and their families.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I would like to review all your reports, particularly due to the high levels of hemoglobin (Hb) you previously had. Since your bone marrow function appeared inadequate, you may require a repeat bone marrow biopsy for further evaluation. There are several secondary causes of high Hb, including tumors, high-altitude living, smoking, dehydration, and certain kidney-related conditions. It would be helpful to know if you have undergone an abdominal ultrasound and the current status of your spleen.

If your Hb remains above 16.5, you may need to continue phlebotomy every three to six months. However, at present, your Hb is lower following the phlebotomy. Regular follow-ups with a complete blood count (CBC) and a new bone marrow report will be necessary. Polycythemia vera could be a potential cause of your elevated Hb, but further evaluation is needed. A comprehensive panel for myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) should be conducted, including tests for JAK2 Exon 12, MPL, and CALR mutations. Additionally, a bone marrow examination by an expert is recommended.

Until a definitive diagnosis is established, phlebotomy remains the primary management approach.

I hope I have addressed your concerns. Feel free to reach out if you have further questions or need additional guidance.

Wishing you good health.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

The report says:

  1. My Hb was quite high: 20.5 g/dL.
  2. Spleen: Normal in size.
  3. Liver scanning: Normal.
  4. Kidney (RFT): Normal.
  5. JAK2 V617F: Negative.
  6. JAK2 Exon 12: Negative.

My concern is whether a bone marrow aspiration is worthwhile. The aspiration report appears normal, whereas my biopsy was inadequate.

Could you please clarify this?

Answered by Dr. Ayesha Khanum

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ayesha Khanum is a dedicated Pediatric Hematology specialist known for her compassionate, patient-centered approach to complex blood disorders in children. She focuses on accurate diagnosis, individualized treatment, and long-term care to support healthy growth and development. With deep clinical expertise and a calm, reassuring manner, Dr. Khanum is committed to improving outcomes and quality of life for young patients and their families.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

You need to repeat the bone marrow biopsy, as it is essential for analyzing polycythemia vera.

I hope this answers your question.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At March 27, 2025
Reviewed At March 27, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ayesha Khanum is a dedicated Pediatric Hematology specialist known for her compassionate, patient-centered approach to complex blood disorders in children. She focuses on accurate diagnosis, individualized treatment, and long-term care to support healthy growth and development. With deep clinical expertise and a calm, reassuring manner, Dr. Khanum is committed to improving outcomes and quality of life for young patients and their families.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Ayesha Khanum is a dedicated Pediatric Hematology specialist known for her compassionate, patient-centered approach to complex blood disorders in children. She focuses on accurate diagnosis, individualized treatment, and long-term care to support healthy growth and development. With deep clinical expertise and a calm, reassuring manner, Dr. Khanum is committed to improving outcomes and quality of life for young patients and their families.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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