Optimal hemoglobin concentration and high altitude: a theoretical approach for Andean men at rest

Abstract

The beneficial role of erythrocytosis for O2 transport has been questioned by evidence from bloodletting and hemodilution research as well as by studies suggesting the existence of an “optimal” hematocrit (Hct) or hemoglobin concentration ([Hb]) value. To assess to what extent erythrocytosis is beneficial in Andean men at high altitude, we examined and discussed optimal [Hb] using a mathematical approach by modeling the mixed (mean) venous Po2 (Pv̄O2) and arterial O2 content, considering for both the relation between [Hb] and arterial Po2. Relations of [Hb] to other physiological variables such as cardiac output and convective arterial O2 transport were also discussed, revealing the importance of Pv̄O2 in this model. Our theoretical analysis suggests that increasing [Hb] allows increase and maintenance of Pv̄O2 with only moderate declines in arterial Po2 as a consequence of moderate increases in altitude, reaching its maximum at the optimal [Hb] of 14.7 g/dl. Our analysis also shows that [Hb] corresponding to high arterial O2 content and O2 transport values is apparently not quite advantageous for improvement of oxygenation. Furthermore, chronic mountain sickness is discussed as an insightful example of the effects of excessive erythrocytosis at high altitude.