POLYCYTHEMIA OF OBESITY: FURTHER STUDIES OF ITS MECHANISM AND A REPORT OF TWO ADDITIONAL CASES

Abstract

Polycythemia of obesity is a form of secondary polycythemia which appears to be the result of mechanical restriction of pulmonary ventilation caused by massive obesity. The condition is characterized by inadequate alveolar ventilation resulting in arterial hypoxemia and CO2 retention. Clinical features include cyanosis, shallow breathing, Cheyne-Stokes respiration, and intermittent heart failure. The condition is promptly reversed by weight reduction without any other therapy.