Erythrocytosis Relative

Relative erythrocytosis: causes, symptoms and treatment

Relative erythrocytosis, also known as erythrocyte false erythrocytosis, is a condition in which the level of red blood cells in the blood increases, but the total number of red blood cells remains normal. This distinguishes it from absolute erythrocytosis, in which the total number of red blood cells in the blood is actually increased.

The causes of relative erythrocytosis can be varied. One of the most common causes is dehydration of the body. With dehydration, fluid levels in the body decrease, which can lead to concentrated blood and an increase in the relative number of red blood cells. Another reason may be a decrease in plasma volume in the blood, which also leads to a relative increase in the level of red blood cells.

Symptoms of relative erythrocytosis can vary and depend on the underlying disease or condition causing the condition. In some cases, general symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, dizziness and shortness of breath may occur. However, in most cases, symptoms depend on the underlying disease.

Treatment of relative erythrocytosis is aimed at eliminating its underlying cause. If dehydration is the cause, it is important to increase fluid intake and maintain optimal hydration levels. If plasma volume in the blood decreases, fluid infusions may be required to restore plasma volume.

For an accurate diagnosis and determination of the causes of relative erythrocytosis, you must consult a doctor. The doctor will perform a physical examination, take a medical history, and may order additional laboratory tests, such as blood and urine tests, to identify the underlying disease or condition causing erythrocytosis.

In conclusion, relative erythrocytosis is a condition characterized by increased levels of red blood cells in the blood while maintaining a normal total number of red blood cells. It can be caused by various reasons, such as dehydration and decreased plasma volume in the blood. Treatment is aimed at eliminating the underlying cause. If you suspect relative erythrocytosis, consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.



Erythrocytosis is a significant increase in the number of red blood cells per unit volume of blood by more than 5 million/μl, which is accompanied by hemoconcentration and causes arterial hyperemia of the organs. The risk of developing this pathological condition is associated with diseases that occur as a result of hypoxia, as well as with functional disorders of vascular tone.

An important sign of relative erythrocytosis is a high number of reticulocytes in the peripheral blood - the precursors of erythrocytes. An increase in the level of these cells may indicate their formation in the spleen.

Erythrocytes are spherical red blood cells containing hemoglobin. The main function of these cells is respiratory, due to which oxygen is transferred from the lungs to tissues and carbon dioxide is removed from all cells of the body. In other words, red blood cells are saturated with gas: in the lungs during breathing they retain oxygen, become denser and larger, and in the tissues they release it to the tissues. In this way, the body is supplied with oxygen in full, because the cells of the organs receive the necessary supplies of this gas.

In peripheral venous blood, red blood cells normally account for up to 45% of the total cell volume. An increase in their concentration above 55% over time indicates the development of erythrocytosis. This condition is expressed by the “young man” symptom, when as the child grows older (after 20 years), an increase in hemoglobin and hematocrit is noted. This is due to the fact that as the body grows, the volume of blood vessels also increases,