HomeAnswersHematologypolycythemia veraMy hemoglobin is 17.3 g/dL, HCT 53 %, MCH 32.1 pg, RBC is 5.7 million per millimeters cube, ESR 20 mm/hour, and globulin is 3.5 g/L. Please advise.

What do this hemoglobin 17.3 g/dL, HCT 53 %, MCH 32.1 pg, RBC 5.7 million per millimeters cube, ESR 20 mm/hour, and globulin 3.5 g/L signify?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At September 1, 2023
Reviewed AtSeptember 5, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

My hemoglobin is 17.3 g/dL, HCT 53 %, MCH 32.1 pg, RBC is 5.7 million per millimeters cube, ESR 20 mm/hour, and globulin is 3.5 g/dL. Please advise.

Thanks.

Hi,

Welcome to the icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

The diagnosis is polycythemia. Your hemoglobin level, RBC (red blood cell) mass, and HCT (hematocrit) are high—this condition is known as polycythemia. The causes can be secondary or primary. Secondary causes include cardiac problems, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, high altitude, etc. In these conditions, more erythropoietin was secreted because of hypoxia; hence, RBC mass increased as a compensatory mechanism. For these conditions to rule out EKG (echocardiography) and pulmonary function test done. Now let us discuss primary polycythemia. It is a myeloproliferative neoplasm. This condition is suspected in your case if a sustained rise of hemoglobin and HCT occurs. To rule out, spleen palpation is done (which is usually enlarged), and investigation is done with PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to detect JAK2 (Janus kinase) mutation. According to cause, further specific treatment is given. Consult a physician for examination with keeping my answer in mind.

I hope this information will help you.

Thank you.

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

Dr. Goswami Parth Rajendragiri
Dr. Goswami Parth Rajendragiri

Pathology

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Hematology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy