Study of Cobalt's Role in Excessive Erythrocytosis Among High Altitude Dwellers in Cerro de Pasco, Peru

Change from baseline in arterial blood gas values at week 8

Analyzed using portable machine. The values analyzed include serum pH, partial pressure of carbon dioxide, partial pressure of oxygen, and serum bicarbonate.

Time frame: Baseline and week 8

Change from baseline Erythropoietin at week 8

Serum hormone that stimulates red blood cell production

Time frame: Baseline and week 8

Change from baseline in serum and urine Cobalt at day 3

Will calculate spot clearance of cobalt

Time frame: Baseline and day 3

Change in baseline urine protein at 8 weeks

Ratio of urine total protein to urine creatinine

Time frame: Baseline and week 8

Change in baseline Chronic mountain sickness score at 8 weeks

Chronic Mountain Sickness Score Absent Mild Moderate Severe Headache 0 +1 +2 +3 Dizziness 0 +1 +2 +3 Failing Memory 0 +1 +2 +3 Fatigue 0 +1 +2 +3 Breathlessness 0 +1 +2 +3 Sleep disturbances 0 +1 +2 +3 Tinnitus 0 +1 +2 +3 Anorexia 0 +1 +2 +3 Cyanosis of lips, face, or fingers 0 +1 +2 +3 Hyperemia or prominent capillaries conjunctivae or laryngopharynx 0 +1 +2 +3

Time frame: Baseline and week 8

Changes in baseline Serum electrolytes at day 3, 14 and week 8

Electrolytes, specifically monitoring serum potassium to treat serious hypokalemia (serum potassium \< 3.0 meQ/L).

Time frame: Baseline and Days 3, 14, and week 8