Myeloproliferative Disorders Treatment in Utah

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), previously called myeloproliferative disorders, are diseases of the bone marrow and blood. They can strike at any age, have no known cause and a wide range of symptoms and outlooks.

Symptoms of Myeloproliferative Disorders:

Many times, especially in the early stages, myeloproliferative neoplasms (previously called myeloproliferative disorders) do not have symptoms. When MPNs do have signs, they vary from person to person. If you have symptoms, they may include:

  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Easy bruising or bleeding
  • Petechiae (tiny red spots under the skin)
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Night sweats
  • Fever
  • Pruritus (itching)

These symptoms do not always mean you have a myeloproliferative neoplasm. However, it is important to discuss any symptoms with your doctor, since they may signal other health problems.

Myeloproliferative Disorders Treatment Options:

Myeloproliferative neoplasms, previously called myeloproliferative disorders, can be challenging to treat. Patients may require years of therapy and follow-up care. Treatments for MPN generally are aimed at controlling disease symptoms, and your symptoms will help the doctor decide which treatment is best. Therapies may include one or more of the following:

  • Medications: Aspirin, hydroxyurea, anagrelide and interferon-alpha are the main medications for essential thrombocythemia and polycythemia vera. Ruxolitinib can be used in polycythemia vera patients not responding to hydroxyurea. For myelofibrosis, ruxolitinib and fedratinib (JAK inhibitors) are approved therapies. Thalidomide, steroids and other hormones, and cladribine also may be used.
  • Blood or platelet transfusion 
  • Growth factors, which stimulate growth of bone marrow cells, are given as injections under the skin and may benefit myelofibrosis patients with low blood cell counts.
  • Radiation therapy of the spleen in patients with myelofibrosis
  • Surgical removal of the spleen in patients with myelofibrosis
  • Phlebotomy for patients with polycythemia vera
  • Stem cell transplant in patients with myelofibrosis