An abnormal increase in the number of red blood cells in the blood, which makes the blood thicker and can cause serious health problems.
From Greek erythro- (red) + cyto- (cell) + -osis (condition or disease state). This medical term was coined to describe pathological increases in red cell production, distinct from the normal physiological response to altitude or exercise.
Erythrocytosis can happen in athletes who live at high altitude or people with genetic mutations—their bodies make too many red blood cells, making their blood thick like syrup! This increases heart attack and stroke risk because the blood moves sluggishly through vessels.
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