Understanding Lab Tests for Polycythemia
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Polycythemia is a blood disorder characterized by an abnormally high number of red blood cells in the bloodstream. This condition can increase blood viscosity and raise the risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack. Blood tests are the primary diagnostic tools for detecting and monitoring polycythemia.
Top Recommended Test
Complete Blood Count / CBC (includes Differential and Platelets)
This is the primary diagnostic test for polycythemia. The CBC measures red blood cell count, hemoglobin levels, and hematocrit, which are all elevated in polycythemia. High levels indicate that the body is producing too many red blood cells, which can increase clotting risk and may signal underlying bone marrow disorders or responses to low oxygen levels.
2907 reviews
How Blood Tests Diagnose Polycythemia
The diagnosis of polycythemia relies on specific blood tests that measure red blood cell count, hemoglobin levels, and hematocrit values. These tests can identify elevated levels that indicate the condition and help determine its underlying cause, whether it's primary (due to bone marrow disorders) or secondary (caused by other conditions like low oxygen levels or kidney disease).
Other Relevant Tests
Inflammation test
This test measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a test tube. In polycythemia, the increased number of red blood cells typically causes a lower sedimentation rate, which can support the diagnosis and help monitor the condition's progression.
2907 reviews
Testosterone, Total, Male, IA (MALES ONLY)
For male patients, elevated testosterone levels can be a contributing factor to polycythemia development. Testosterone can stimulate red blood cell production, leading to increased counts and higher clotting risk. This test helps identify hormone-related causes of the condition.
2907 reviews
Post COVID-19 Expanded Panel
This comprehensive panel includes blood count analysis that can detect elevated red blood cell levels indicative of polycythemia. It's particularly useful for patients with post-COVID complications, as some individuals may develop blood-related abnormalities following infection.
2907 reviews
Understanding Your Results
Polycythemia is typically diagnosed when red blood cell count, hemoglobin, or hematocrit levels exceed normal ranges. Your healthcare provider will interpret these results in the context of your symptoms and medical history to determine the appropriate treatment approach, which may include therapeutic blood removal, medications, or addressing underlying causes.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of polycythemia or any blood disorder.
