Essential thrombocythemia (ET) is a rare disease caused by an isolated elevation of platelet counts. Gene mutations lead to a diagnosis of ET, with mutations of JAK2 being the most common, CALR being second, and MPL being less common. These mutations cause stem cells to yield many more platelets than an average person which can lead to abnormal bleeding or blood clots. It is not currently known why some people develop ET and some do not, but it’s considered to be a myeloproliferative neoplasm with long life expectancy and less progression potential. Most patients will require treatment, but some will not depending on the severity of the disease. For more severe disease, treatment options like hydroxyurea or anagrelide can be used to slow down the production of blood cells. Blood thinners may be necessary as well and patients also often take aspirin to reduce the risk of blood clots, which can be an initial indication of the disease. These treatments are generally well tolerated by patients with minimal side effects and restrictions. Interferon, signaling proteins made in your body when fighting infections, is becoming recognized as an important treatment for ET that can dramatically improve blood counts. The Weill Cornell Medicine Richard T. Silver Myeloproliferative Neoplasms Center is actively studying interferon drugs for MPN treatment through clinical trials and studies at our facilities.

Learn more: https://silvermpncenter.weill.cornell...