Causes
MPNs are rare blood cancers characterized by an overproduction of mature blood cells in the bone marrow. MPNs are not fully understood, but they are believed to be caused by genetic mutations in hematopoietic stem cells, leading to abnormal cell proliferation.
Symptoms
Depending on the type of myeloproliferative neoplasm, symptoms may include:
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Anemia causes fatigue due to abnormal production of blood cells.
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Spleen Enlargement: Hepatosplenomegaly, resulting in abdominal discomfort or fullness.
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Strokes and heart attacks can be caused by blood clots or thrombosis.
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Thrombocytopenia or abnormal platelet function causes bleeding.
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Polycythemia vera is particularly prone to night sweats.
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In advanced stages, bone pain is more common.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of myeloproliferative neoplasms involves:
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A complete blood count (CBC) measures the amount of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the body.
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A bone marrow biopsy is used to determine the morphology and cellularity of the bone marrow.
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The purpose of genetic testing is to identify mutations such as JAK2, CALR, or MPL that are common in MPNs.
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An ultrasound or CT scan can evaluate organ enlargement or detect thrombosis.
Treatment
Myeloproliferative neoplasms are treated to manage symptoms, reduce complications, and slow the progression of the disease:
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In polycythemia vera, phlebotomy is used to reduce high blood cell counts.
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A medication such as hydroxyurea or interferon-alpha is used to suppress abnormal blood cell production.
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Including JAK2 inhibitors, JAK inhibitors target specific mutations.
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Blood clot prevention with aspirin therapy.
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For patients with advanced diseases who are eligible for bone marrow transplants.
Prevention
Myeloproliferative neoplasms are difficult to prevent because their exact cause is often unknown. However, managing risk factors such as smoking cessation and maintaining a healthy lifestyle may help reduce complications.
Conclusion
In addition to fatigue, an enlarged spleen, and an increased risk of blood clots, myeloproliferative neoplasms are rare blood cancers that are characterized by abnormal proliferation of blood cells in the bone marrow. Blood tests, bone marrow biopsy, and genetic testing are used to diagnose the disease. By managing symptoms, reducing complications, and slowing the progression of the disease, medications, phlebotomy, and sometimes bone marrow transplants are used for treatment. Individuals with myeloproliferative neoplasms benefit from early diagnosis and appropriate management.
