Polycythemia vera: Test Your Understanding

What does polycythemia vera mainly affect?

The immune system only

The lungs’ ability to absorb oxygen

The bone marrow making too many blood cells

The liver’s ability to store iron

Why do doctors monitor people with polycythemia vera closely over time?

Because it always turns into leukemia

Because it usually causes severe bleeding

Because it always causes infections

Because thicker blood can increase the risk of blood clots

Which symptom is commonly associated with polycythemia vera?

Frequent nosebleeds

Itching, especially after a warm shower

Severe chest pain with every episode

Sudden weight loss

Which blood test finding is most typical of polycythemia vera?

Low hemoglobin and hematocrit

Normal red blood cell levels

High hemoglobin and hematocrit

Low white blood cell count only

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