Polycythemia vera

Polycythemia vera (PV) is a rare type of blood disorder in which the body produces too many red blood cells. This overproduction can lead to thickening of the blood, which can cause blood clots, stroke, or other health problems. PV is a type of myeloproliferative neoplasm, a group of blood cancers that affect the normal production of blood cells in the bone marrow.

Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of polycythemia vera can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may not experience any symptoms at all, while others may experience severe symptoms. Common symptoms of PV include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, headache, dizziness, itching, and night sweats. In some cases, people with PV may also experience abdominal pain due to an enlarged spleen.

Causes

Polycythemia vera is caused by a mutation in the JAK2 gene. This gene provides instructions for making a protein that promotes the growth and division of cells. When the JAK2 gene is mutated, it can lead to the overproduction of red blood cells.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of polycythemia vera is often made through a series of blood tests. These tests can show an increase in the number of red blood cells and a decrease in the level of erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells. In some cases, a bone marrow biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

The treatment of polycythemia vera is aimed at reducing the number of red blood cells in the body and preventing complications such as blood clots. This can be achieved through various methods, including phlebotomy, medication, and in some cases, radiation therapy.

See Also

• Myeloproliferative neoplasm
• Blood disorders
• JAK2

References

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External Links

• National Cancer Institute: Polycythemia Vera Treatment

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