What clinical condition characterized by excessive red blood cell count causes elevated blood viscosity and increased cardiac workload?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Polycythemia
- Step 1: Blood viscosity depends exponentially on hematocrit above 45%. Step 2. In polycythemia (hematocrit > 55-60%), internal fluid friction rises sharply, increasing systemic vascular resistance and predisposing to thrombosis. Answer: Polycythemia. Why not the others: Aplastic anemia reduces RBC count, lowering viscosity; Hemolytic jaundice involves bilirubin buildup; Leukopenia is low white cell count.
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