Agnogenic myeloid metaplasia
Myelofibrosis is an uncommon bone marrow cancer disrupting normal blood cell production.
It leads to extensive scarring in the bone marrow, causing severe anemia and increased risk of bleeding due to low platelet counts.
Enlargement of the spleen is common in myelofibrosis, affecting blood-clotting cells and causing discomfort.
Classified as a chronic leukemia, myelofibrosis is part of a group of disorders known as myeloproliferative disorders.
Symptoms
Myelofibrosis progresses slowly, with early stages often showing no symptoms.
- Signs and symptoms may include
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Abdominal pain from an enlarged spleen
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Night sweats
- Fever
- Bone pain.
When to See a Doctor
Persistent signs and symptoms should prompt a consultation with a doctor, especially if they cause concern.
Causes
Myelofibrosis arises from genetic mutations in bone marrow stem cells, disrupting normal blood cell production.
The exact cause of these mutations is unclear, but they lead to anemia, increased white blood cell counts, and varying platelet levels.
Common mutations include Janus kinase 2 (JAK2), CALR, and MPL, influencing prognosis and treatment decisions.
Risk Factors
Myelofibrosis typically affects individuals over 50, with some developing it as a complication of other blood cell disorders.
Exposure to certain chemicals like toluene and benzene, as well as radiation, increases the risk.
Complications
- Complications of myelofibrosis include high blood pressure in the liver's portal vein, leading to vein rupture and bleeding, abdominal and back pain from spleen enlargement, and growth of blood cell tumors in other organs.
- Bleeding complications due to low platelet counts, and progression to acute leukemia are potential complications.
