Myeloproliferative neoplasms and myelodysplastic syndromes are diseases of the blood cells. They include chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms, myelodysplastic syndromes, and myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasms. Chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms are diseases in which the bone marrow makes too many red blood cells, platelets, or certain white blood cells.

There are six types of chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms. The type of myeloproliferative neoplasm is based on whether too many red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets are being made. Sometimes the body will make too many of more than one type of blood cell, but usually one type of blood cell is affected more than the others are. Chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms include the following 6 types:

  • Chronic myelogenous leukemia
  • Polycythemia vera
  • Primary myelofibrosis (also called chronic idiopathic myelofibrosis)
  • Essential thrombocythemia
  • Chronic neutrophilic leukemia
  • Chronic eosinophilic leukemia

Signs & Symptoms

Some people with myeloproliferative neoplasms have no symptoms at diagnosis even though their blood counts are high. The symptoms depend on the type of myeloproliferative neoplasms the patient has. Some of the more common symptoms include:

  • Fatigue and tiredness
  • Shortness of breath during exertion
  • Pale skin
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Bone pain
  • Night sweats
  • Itching
  • Infections and fever
  • Pain or a feeling of fullness below the ribs from an enlarged liver or spleen.
  • Weight loss without trying
  • Blood clots

Treatment

Your OHC doctor will help you determine the best care plan for you.

Treatment of chronic phase chronic myelogenous leukemia may include the following: