Which condition is associated with polycythemia vera?

Polycythemia vera is a myeloproliferative disorder characterized by the overproduction of red blood cells, but it often involves the production of other blood components as well, such as white blood cells and platelets. The increased red blood cell mass leads to a higher blood viscosity, which can contribute to an elevated risk of thrombotic events, meaning individuals with polycythemia vera have a significant risk of developing blood clots. This risk can lead to serious complications such as stroke or deep vein thrombosis.

The connection with clotting risk is crucial as it underscores the need for careful management of patients with polycythemia vera to prevent these adverse outcomes. Understanding this relationship emphasizes the importance of monitoring and potentially treating such patients with anticoagulant therapies or therapeutic phlebotomy to reduce blood viscosity and overall clotting risk.