Viscosity Blood Test
The Viscosity Blood Test evaluates blood flow resistance to help screen for hyperviscosity syndrome.
Description
Order this Viscosity Blood Test to measure blood flow resistance and screen for hyperviscosity syndrome. Hyperviscosity syndrome is a combination of related symptoms activated by increased blood viscosity (thickness). Hyperviscosity is attributed to abnormally high levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, or proteins in your bloodstream. In addition, conditions that produce abnormally shaped red blood cells may cause an increase in viscosity, such as sickle cell anemia. The primary symptoms of hyperviscosity syndrome are the complications that occur when insufficient oxygen-rich blood can reach vital organs.
Additional signs or symptoms of hyperviscosity syndrome include:
- headaches
- abnormal bleeding
- vision problems
- sudden weight loss
- vertigo
- chest pain
- shortness of breath
- seizure
- coma
Hyperviscosity syndrome can affect both children and adults. For example, it can affect children's growth by reducing blood flow to vital organs like the heart, intestines, kidneys, and brain. However, it can be a symptom associated with autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus in adults. In addition, it can develop with certain cancers like lymphoma and leukemia.
Other conditions associated with hyperviscosity syndrome that cause an increase in serum proteins or cells include:
- Autoimmune disorders
- Inflammation
- Leukemia (increased white blood cells)
- Multiple myeloma
- Polycythemia (increased red blood cells)
- Waldenström Macroglobulinemia
Individuals may order a Viscosity Blood Test if they have experienced hyperviscosity-related symptoms or have been diagnosed with a condition associated with hyperviscosity and want to monitor treatment.
