Hyperviscosity Syndrome
- PMID: 30085505
- Bookshelf ID: NBK518963
Hyperviscosity Syndrome
Excerpt
Hyperviscosity syndrome (HVS) is an oncologic emergency that classically presents with the triad of neurological deficits, visual changes, and mucosal bleeding. Elevated blood viscosity results from either red blood cell shape deformity or a pathological increase in serum proteins, red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. The most common cause of HVS is Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia; therefore, the term HVS is typically used to describe increased serum proteins. Management consists of supportive care with intravenous fluids, plasmapheresis, and treatment of the underlying hematological condition.
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