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?

Question

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.

Answer 1

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.