This information is intended to provide a general overview of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPNs). It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health.
Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPNs), formerly known as myeloproliferative disorders, are a group of chronic conditions affecting the bone marrow and blood. They are characterised by the overproduction of one or more types of blood cells. MPNs can occur at any age, and while the exact cause is often unknown, they present a wide range of symptoms and outlooks. The disease course is variable; some MPNs progress slowly and require minimal intervention, while others may eventually transform into a more aggressive form of blood cancer, such as acute myeloid leukaemia (AML).
To better understand MPNs, it is helpful to know the role of normal blood components:
These are vital for carrying oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body. A low RBC count can lead to anaemia, with symptoms like weakness and fatigue.
These cells are the body's defence against infection. Key types include:
These are essential for controlling bleeding by collecting at the site of an injury to form a clot.
The soft, spongy tissue inside bones where all blood cells are created from very young cells known as stem cells.
The main types of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms include:
This affects red blood cells and a type of white blood cell called granulocytes. It causes scarring or thickening of the bone marrow fibres, leading to decreased red blood cell production and often anaemia.
Characterised by the overproduction of red blood cells. This can cause the spleen to swell and may lead to generalised itching (pruritus).
Involves a significantly high number of platelets in the blood. The excess platelets can make the blood "sticky," potentially slowing blood flow.
An increase in eosinophils (a type of WBC that fights allergic reactions) can cause symptoms like itching and swelling. In some patients, HES can quickly advance to acute myelogenous leukaemia.
Caused by the accumulation of mast cells in tissues such as the skin, bone marrow, liver, and spleen.
Factors that may increase the risk of developing an MPN include exposure to:
Many individuals diagnosed with an MPN are found to have a mutation in the JAK2 gene.
In the initial stages, Myeloproliferative Neoplasms often do not produce any noticeable symptoms. When signs do manifest, they can vary from person to person. If you experience symptoms, they may include:
These symptoms are not exclusive to MPNs and can be caused by other health problems. It is vital to discuss any new or concerning symptoms with your doctor.
Diagnosing a Myeloproliferative Neoplasm can be challenging. Because early stages are often asymptomatic, and symptoms can be vague or mistaken for other diseases, extensive experience in MPN is required for an accurate diagnosis.
At SSCHRC, our expert haematopathologists specialise in these conditions, utilising state-of-the-art technology to ensure a precise and timely diagnosis.
These are ordered if an MPN is suspected and can help to validate the initial suspicion.
This procedure, which involves removing and examining a tissue sample, may be required to definitively confirm the diagnosis.
Our team is highly experienced in diagnosing every MPN subtype and welcomes the opportunity to provide second opinions.
Myeloproliferative Neoplasms can be complex to treat, and patients may require a long-term approach involving years of therapy and careful follow-up. The primary goal of treatment is to effectively control disease symptoms and mitigate the risk of complications.
At SSCHRC, our experts design personalised care plans, aiming to utilise the most advanced therapeutic options with the least impact on your body. Treatment is guided by the specific MPN subtype and the patient's symptoms.
At SSCHRC, our commitment to research allows us to offer clinical trials for investigational agents, ensuring our patients have access to the newest advancements in MPN care.