Hyperviscosity

Causes and Risks:
Hyperviscosity results when the percentage of red blood cells (RBCs) in the infant's blood is greater than 65%. High hematocrits may result from various intrauterine conditions such as hypoxia , inherited diseases, and congenital abnormalities.

The high percentage of RBCs causes blockage of blood flow in the smallest capillaries. This leads to tissue death from lack of oxygen. This blocked blood flow can affect all organs such as the kidneys, lungs, and brain.

Infants with hyperviscosity may develop feeding problems, cyanosis , low blood sugar , elevated bilirubin ( jaundice ), and other more ominous findings. Central nervous system damage may appear later as learning disabilities, speech problems , and other subtle defects.

Prevention:
Newborn infants are routinely monitored for the hematocrit level, enabling quick detection of the condition.

Symptoms:



Signs and Tests:

Tests:



Treatment:
Elevated hematocrits, above 65% may be treated by increasing fluids or administering reduction transfusions, both of which can prevent the complications of hyperviscosity.

Prognosis:
The outcome is good in infants with mild hyperviscosity and in those with severe hyperviscosity that receive treatment.

Complications:



Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call your health care provider if this condition is diagnosed at birth and you have additional questions.


Polycythemia is a condition of increased production of red blood cells (RBCs). The percentage of RBCs in the blood may become so high that the blood ceases to flow in some smaller vessels and capillaries. In this photomicrograph, the RBCs are densely packed together.