Euaemia, also spelled as Euhemia, is a now obsolete medical term that refers to a condition characterized by the presence of an excessive amount of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the bloodstream. The term is composed of the Greek words "eua" meaning "good" or "normal," and "haima" meaning "blood." Therefore, euaemia essentially denotes a state of normal or good blood.
Historically, euaemia was considered to be a beneficial condition, associated with optimal health and vigor. It was believed that an abundant supply of red blood cells in the body signified vitality and strength. However, with advancements in medical knowledge and understanding, the term has become outdated and is no longer used in modern medical practice.
Today, the excessive accumulation of red blood cells in the circulation is known as polycythemia. It can be classified into primary or secondary polycythemia, depending on the underlying cause. Primary polycythemia, also known as polycythemia vera, is a rare blood disorder characterized by the overproduction of red blood cells in the bone marrow. Secondary polycythemia, on the other hand, occurs as a result of other medical conditions or factors, such as chronic lung disease, heart disease, or high-altitude living.
In summary, euaemia is an archaic term used to describe an excess of red blood cells. While it once connoted a state of good health, it has now been replaced with the more modern term of polycythemia.
