Andrew Kuykendall, MD, Assistant Member at Moffitt Cancer Center in the Department of Malignant Hematology gives an overview of polycythemia vera.
As Dr. Kuykendall explains, polycythemia vera is a rare blood disorder characterized by an increased concentration of blood cells. In most cases, polycythemia vera is acquired rather than congenital, and it predominantly affects older adults. It is associated with mutations in the JAK2 and TET2 genes. While patients can live for decades with this disorder, Dr. Kuykendall stresses the increased risk of thrombotic events. Symptoms of this disorder are varied and may include fevers, chills, itching, and fatigue. The most common treatment for polycythemia vera includes frequent phlebotomies. Currently, there is an ongoing phase 2 clinical trial for PTG-300 which has been shown to reduce hematocrit levels and reverse extreme iron deficiency.
To learn more about polycythemia vera and other rare hematologic conditions, visit checkrare.com/diseases/hematology
