What Are Treatments For Myeloproliferative Neoplasm?

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) MPNs are chronic blood cancers that include three main types: polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF). Treatments vary based on which type you have, whether you have symptoms, and your risk of complications like blood clots or progression to more serious disease. 

Treatment Goals for MPN

• Reducing blood counts
• Preventing blood clots
• Managing symptoms
• Monitoring for disease progression

Some people may not need treatment right away and can be monitored over time, a strategy known as "watchful waiting"

Watchful Waiting

For patients with slow-progressing MPNs and no symptoms, a watchful waiting approach may be recommended. This involves regular monitoring of the patient's condition without active treatment, until symptoms develop or changes in the blood are detected. This approach avoids unnecessary side effects from treatments.

Medications for MPN

Medications are often used to manage symptoms and slow the progression of MPNs. The treatments depend on the type of MPN. For example:

• Aspirin: Low-dose aspirin makes platelets less sticky and helps prevent blood clots.
• Hydroxyurea: This is commonly used to treat polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia. It works by slowing the production of blood cells.
• Interferon alfa: This can be used to treat several types of MPNs. It helps to regulate the immune system and slow the production of blood cells. There are options such as ropeginterferon alfa-2b-njft (Besremi) and peginterferon alfa-2a (Pegasys)
• Ruxolitinib: This is used to treat myelofibrosis and polycythemia vera. It works by blocking the action of certain proteins that lead to red blood cell overproduction.
• Treatments for myelofibrosis: they are different for each patient, depending on the risk status and fibrosis extent. There are also supportive therapies which aim to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. 

Phlebotomy

Phlebotomy is a procedure used to remove excess blood from the body. This can help to reduce symptoms and complications in conditions such as polycythemia vera, where too many red blood cells are produced.  

Stem Cell Transplant

In some cases, a stem cell transplant may be considered. This is the only potential cure for MPNs, but it carries significant risks and is usually only considered for younger patients with advanced disease. The procedure involves replacing the patient's bone marrow with healthy stem cells from a donor.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It may be used in some cases to shrink an enlarged spleen in myelofibrosis.

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are not just a last resort for treating MPNs. They can provide access to cutting-edge treatments that are not yet approved but show promise over years of testing. The choice of a clinical trial depends on a variety of factors including the patient's age, overall health, the type of MPN, and genetic changes in the leukemia cells. It's important to discuss all treatment options, including goals and possible side effects, with your healthcare team to help make the best decision. 

To learn more about your clinical trial options, visit HealthTree's Clinical Trial Finder. Utilize the advanced filter option to locate trials that you are eligible to participate in. You can create a HealthTree account to favorite your top trial options so you can discuss them with your ALL specialist.

Supportive Treatments 

MPNs often cause symptoms like fatigue, itching, bone pain, and night sweats. Supportive care includes:

• Aspirin or ruxolitinib for headaches and spleen discomfort
• Antihistamines or SSRIs for itching
• Red blood cell transfusions for anemia
• Iron chelation if iron levels become too high due to transfusions
• Anticoagulants to treat or prevent clots if neededmpn-patient

Supportive care helps improve quality of life and is often combined with other MPN treatments.

Stay Ahead with the Latest MPN News

Discover breaking research, treatment updates, patient stories, and educational events tailored for the MPN community.

Read MPN News