Myeloproliferative disorder

Myeloproliferative disorders (MPDs) are a group of diseases of the blood and bone marrow in which the bone marrow makes too many red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. They are related to, and may evolve into, myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia, although the myeloproliferative diseases on the whole have a much better prognosis.

Classification

Myeloproliferative disorders are classified into several types, including:

• Polycythemia vera (PV)
• Essential thrombocythemia (ET)
• Primary myelofibrosis (PMF)
• Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML)

Symptoms

Symptoms of myeloproliferative disorders can vary greatly from patient to patient, but may include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and palpitations due to anemia; bruising or bleeding due to thrombocytopenia; and fever, sweating, and weight loss due to leukemia.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of myeloproliferative disorders typically involves a series of blood tests, including a complete blood count, bone marrow biopsy, and genetic testing for mutations associated with the disorders.

Treatment

Treatment for myeloproliferative disorders depends on the specific type of disorder and the patient's overall health. Options may include phlebotomy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplant, and medications to reduce the production of blood cells.

See also

• Hematology
• Oncology
• Hematopathology