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secondary polycythemia
any absolute increase in the total red cell mass other than polycythemia vera, usually occurring as a response to hypoxia (deficient oxygen supply to the tissues). Some types are called compensatory or appropriate, such as from adjustments for general tissue hypoxia (such as that associated with lung disease, heart disease, or living
at high altitude), or from the presence of defective hemoglobin or certain drugs. Other types are called inappropriate and reflect excessive production of erythropoietin due to a disorder of the kidneys or some other organ. Called also erythrocytosis.

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