Myeloproliferative neoplasm

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are a group of rare blood cancers in which excess red blood cells, white blood cells or platelets are produced in the bone marrow. The three main types of MPNs are polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF).

Symptoms

Symptoms of MPNs can vary greatly, depending on the specific type of MPN and the individual patient. Some people with MPNs do not have any symptoms at all. When symptoms do occur, they can include fatigue, shortness of breath, easy bruising or bleeding, and an enlarged spleen.

Causes

The exact cause of MPNs is not known. However, most people with these conditions have mutations in certain genes that affect blood cell production. The most common of these is the JAK2 gene.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of MPNs typically involves blood tests to check for high levels of blood cells and bone marrow tests to look for abnormal cells. Genetic testing may also be done to look for mutations in the JAK2 gene or other genes.

Treatment

Treatment for MPNs depends on the specific type of MPN and the severity of the patient's symptoms. It may include medication to reduce blood cell production, procedures to remove excess blood cells, and in some cases, stem cell transplantation.

See also

• Blood cancer
• Bone marrow
• Genetic testing

References

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