A qualitative drug screen is used to detect the presence of a drug in the body. A blood or urine sample may be used. However, urine is the best specimen for broad qualitative screening, as blood is relatively insensitive for many common drugs, including psychotropic agents, opioids, and stimulants. Common methods of drug analysis include chromatography, immunoassay, chemical (spot) tests, and spectrometry.
Polycythemia Vera Complications. If you have PV, the thickness of your blood and the slowed blood flow can cause serious health problems. Blood clots are the most serious complication of PV. Blood clots can cause a heart attack or stroke. They also can cause your liver and spleen to enlarge.
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Polycythemia (or Polycythaemia, see spelling differences) vera (PV, PCV) (also known as erythremia, primary polycythemia and polycythemia rubra vera) is a neoplasm in which the bone marrow makes too many red blood cells. It may also result in the overproduction of white blood cells and platelets. Most of the health concerns associated with polycythemia vera are caused by the blood being thicker as a result of the increased red blood cells. It is more common in the elderly and may be symptomatic or asymptomatic. Common signs and symptoms include itching (pruritus), and severe burning pain in the hands or feet that is usually accompanied by a reddish or bluish coloration of the skin. Patients with polycythemia vera are more likely to have gouty arthritis.