- Patients
- Exploring cancer care
- Conditions we treat
- Myeloproliferative disorders
Introduction
Myeloproliferative disorders
Myeloproliferative disorders treatment at GenesisCare
We are specialists in the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating all types of cancer, including blood cancers and myeloproliferative disorders. We have teams of highly trained cancer specialists that are experts in this disease who work together to evaluate the newest, evidence-based approaches so we can offer these to every patient – without delay.
Types
Chapter 1
Types
Which type of myeloproliferative disorder you have relates to:
- The type of blood cells affected
- The number of blood cells in your bloodstream
- Your symptoms
Common myeloproliferative disorders are:
Common myeloproliferative disorders are:
- Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML)
- Polycythaemia vera – over–production of red blood cells that carry oxygen around the body
- Essential thrombocythaemia – overproduction of platelets that help the blood clot
- Primary myelofibrosis – excessive fibrosis (connective tissue build-up) in the bone marrow
There are also very rare myeloproliferative disorders that don’t fall into any of the groups above.
Diagnosis
Chapter 2
Diagnosis
How are myeloproliferative disorders diagnosed?
Most often people with myeloproliferative disorders are diagnosed after a routine blood test done for other purposes. It’s not uncommon for you to have no symptoms associated with the disease. Doctors typically use blood tests to diagnose myeloproliferative disorders.
You might also have some other tests, including:
- Bone marrow aspirate biopsy
- CT scan
- Blood tests for specific genetic mutations
Myeloproliferative disorder symptoms
If you do have symptoms, they might include:
- Headaches
- Tiredness
- Bruising or bleeding
- Blurred vision
- Ringing in your ears
- Loss of weight
- Itching
- Blood clots
- Loss of weight
- Abdominal bloating
Treatment
Chapter 3
Treatment
The aim of treatment usually is to control symptoms rather than cure. The treatment you have depends on your type of myeloproliferative disorder. Your consultant haematologist will assess your symptoms, diagnosis and general health together with a team of oncologists (doctors specialising in cancer), pathologists, radiologists and nurses to decide the best course of treatment for you.
Treatments might include:
- Venesection – this is a simple procedure for people with a high red blood cell count. You will have around a pint of blood removed at a regular frequency, which will reduce the number of red cells in your blood
- Drugs to control the blood count – often mild chemotherapy tablets
- Targeted therapy – Medicines which directly target the abnormal proteins in the proliferating bone marrow cells
- Bone marrow or stem cell transplant from a donor – this treatment aims to cure a myeloproliferative disorder
Why choose us?
Chapter 4
Why choose us?
GenesisCare is a leading private provider of cancer care, offering the latest innovations and techniques that are proven to be safe and effective. If you choose us for your treatment, you’ll be under the care of a team of experts, including consultant oncologists and haematologists. They’ll design a personalised care plan based around your diagnosis and preferences, with treatment starting within days if needed. Every patient is also supported through their journey with life-changing therapies, such as exercise medicine and psychological support.
Our dedicated cancer centres are convenient and easy-to-access. You can use your private medical insurance, and we’re recognised by all leading insurers.
We are proud that so many patients rate our care as excellent as we help them through their cancer journey. Find out more about the unique experiences of people who have had their cancer diagnosis or treatment at GenesisCare in our patient stories section.
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