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[Hyperviscosity syndrome with pseudopapilledema and cerebral ischemia]
Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|October 26, 1984
Summary
Polycythemia caused abnormal blood viscosity, leading to papilledema and fundal hemorrhages. Isovolemic hemodilution normalized viscosity, resolving these symptoms and improving cerebral blood flow.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Hematology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Polycythemia can cause elevated blood viscosity, potentially leading to serious complications.
- Papilledema and fundal hemorrhages are indicative of increased intracranial pressure or vascular abnormalities.
Observation:
- A 46-year-old male presented with papilledema and fundal hemorrhages.
- These symptoms were attributed to polycythemia and abnormal blood viscosity.
Findings:
- Isovolemic hemodilution effectively normalized blood viscosity.
- Normalization of viscosity led to the resolution of papilledema and fundal hemorrhages.
- Reduced blood viscosity increased mean regional cerebral blood flow, especially in previously underperfused brain areas.
Implications:
- Isovolemic hemodilution is an effective treatment for polycythemia-induced visual and neurological symptoms.
- Maintaining optimal blood viscosity is crucial for adequate cerebral perfusion.
- This case highlights the link between blood rheology and cerebrovascular health.