Why should I see a hematologist for high Hb and Hct?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am really worried that my Hgb is 17.6 and Hct is 54.6. I have been recommended to consult a hematologist in cancer care center. I am bothered whether it is a major illness. Can you please help me out?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:

Your hemoglobin (Hb or Hgb) and hematocrit (Hct) is a bit high and hence further evaluation is being done.
If you are from a hill station or a smoker or with lung disorder then this may be normal. This is called as polycythemia (increase in red blood cells). It can occur normally too.
However, they are trying to rule out a condition called as polycythemia vera (abnormal increase in red blood cells), a blood cancer. They will be looking for a mutation called as JAK.
The hemoglobin is not high enough to evaluate earlier. However, to confirm that it is only physiological polycythemia and there is no cancer, the evaluation is being done.
Based on history, your hematologist will evaluate for further tests. Not to worry for now.