Polycythemia Vera: Sypnopsis of a Haematological Disorder

Abstract

Polycythemia Vera is a chronic myeloproliferative disorder characterized by excessive production of red blood cells due to abnormal proliferation of
haematopoietic stem cells, commonly associated with JAK2 gene mutations. Increased red cell mass leads to hyperviscosity of blood and a higher risk
of thrombosis, stroke, and cardiovascular complications. Patients commonly present with headache, dizziness, fatigue, pruritus after warm bathing, hypertension, and splenomegaly. Laboratory findings include elevated haemoglobin concentration, increased haematocrit, and reduced serum erythropoietin levels, while bone marrow examination shows hypercellularity. Major complications include thromboembolic events, haemorrhage, myelofibrosis, and possible progression to acute myeloid leukaemia. Diagnosis relies on clinical assessment, haematological investigations, and molecular detection of JAK2 mutations. Management focuses on reducing blood viscosity and thrombotic risk through therapeutic phlebotomy, low-dose aspirin, and cytoreductive agents such as hydroxyurea in high-risk patients.