Polycythemia Vera (PV) Complicated by Late Diagnosis of Multiple Splenic Infarcts: A Case Report

Abstract

Polycythemia vera [PV] is a chronic myeloproliferative tumor where bone marrow makes more red blood cells and other bone marrow cells. Many patients initially are asymptomatic, however, other patients may develop symptoms and complications of this disease later on. One of the PV complications is developing thrombosis in different sites, one of these sites is splenic vessels causing splenic infarction. Here we are describing a JAK2 positive PV case who presented with vague abdominal pain and diagnosed by CT to have splenic infarction, and was treated medically without going to surgical options. In conclusion, splenic infarction is a rare and unique complication of PV. Early diagnosis is paramount to prevent complications and a team approach is highly recommended for the best outcomes.