Hematology Case Histories - Case 10

A 62-year-old male complained of weakness, headache, light-headedness, and fatigue. Upon physical examination, the following information was available:

Erythrocytes 8.5 million/cu mm
Leukocytes 12,500/cu mm
Thrombocytes 400,000/cu mm
Hct 58%
O2 saturation (arterial) 94%
Serum erythropoietin Undetectable

The erythrocytes and leukocytes were immature in the peripheral blood smear. The spleen was enlarged. The determined therapy of choice was phlebotomy, 300-500 mL every other day, until the hematocrit was <45% with the possibility of myelosuppressive therapy, if needed.

1. What is the disorder of this individual?

2. Why are the arterial O2 saturation and erythropoietin levels important in making this decision?

3. Define phlebotomy.

4. How does phlebotomy help correct this problem?

5. Define myelosuppressive therapy.

6. Why may myelosuppressive therapy be needed?

Please enter your e-mail address:

If you would like your answers submitted to your instructor, please provide his/her e-mail address (or you must re-enter your e-mail address here for this form to work):

Please enter your full name:

A copy of your answers will also be submitted to your e-mail address so you may print the information.

Table of Contents

feedback form | permissions | international | locate your campus rep | request a review copy

digital solutions | publish with us | customer service | mhhe home

Copyright ©2001 The McGraw-Hill Companies.
Any use is subject to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
McGraw-Hill Higher Education is one of the many fine businesses of the The McGraw-Hill Companies.