Polycythemia vera
Article Abstract:
A case history is presented of a 64-year-old man with polycythemia vera, a chronic disorder that affects the red blood cell producing component of bone marrow and is characterized by increased red blood cell and hemoglobin concentrations in the blood. The patient was first seen after he had become unresponsive following treatment for acute gout. An enlarged spleen and swollen blood vessels (plethora) were noted at that time; treatment for gout and polycythemia vera was begun. Withdrawal of blood succeeded in reducing the patient's hematocrit (indication of blood hemoglobin), and indomethacin and allopurinol were given for his gout. The patient improved and long-term maintenance therapy included venesections (phlebotomy; withdrawal of blood) to continue to reduce hemoglobin levels. A year after discharge, the patient remained stable and reported that he felt better than he had for several years. For optimal recovery, early diagnosis and treatment of polycythemia vera are emphasized. Although the condition is easily treated, a poor prognosis results without therapy. A primary indication of polycythemia vera is plethora, a reddened face, which is sometimes confused with elemental exposure, or may even be taken as a sign of good health. Another symptom that may be misleading is suffusion of the conjunctivae (which appear to be very red as though permeated with blood), which can be mistaken for an indication of alcohol abuse. Symptoms of polycythemia vera often do not appear until the disease is in an advanced stage. Individuals with polycythemia vera are at increased risk for thrombosis (blood clot); the accelerated turnover of red blood cells can also create symptoms similar to those of hyperthyroidism (increased thyroid hormone secretion). Polycythemia vera is not common and usually affects individuals over 60 years of age. The diagnosis, treatment methods, and the mechanisms of this condition are discussed. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1990
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Don't tread on my tax rate
Article Abstract:
Vermont is torn by Act 60, a bill that raises property taxes in wealthy resort towns to better schools in poorer towns. Resort dwellers say the bill reduces quality of education in their towns. Proponents of the measure bristle at being called socialists.
Publication Name: The New York Times Magazine
Subject:
ISSN: 0028-7822
Year: 1998
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Franks, Oliver Shewell, Baron Franks of Headington
Article Abstract:
Oliver Franks died on Oct 15, 1992. Franks was a British government official, diplomat, educator and banker. He played a major role in implementing the Marshall Plan after World War II and was ambassador to the US from 1948 to 1952.
Publication Name: Current Biography
Subject: History
ISSN: 0011-3344
Year: 1993
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic: