Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Primary Polycythaemia Treatment


Treatment

n Treatment focuses on treating symptoms and reducing thrombotic complications by reducing the erythrocyte levels .

n A method called phlebotomy is used to decrease blood thickness. One pint of blood is removed weekly until the hematocrit level is less than 45, then therapy is continued as needed.

n Phlebotomy is a procedure in which a vein is opened and blood is removed .

n Myelosuppressive drugs (marrow suppressants) are also used, but their effects can be more unpleasant than the disease.

n Low dose aspirin (75–81 mg daily) is often prescribed to reduces the risk for various thrombotic complications (effect epigastric)

n Interferon may also be given in an attempt to lower blood counts .

n Splenectomy to treat resistant splenomegaly .

n Antihistamines relief pruritus (itching) .

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