New perspectives in managing myeloproliferative disorders: Focus on the patient

Abstract

Risk stratification is the basis for treatment decisions in the chronic myeloproliferative disorders, and in addition to the three established risk factors of previous thrombosis, age and platelets >1500 × 109, cardiovascular risk factors should be addressed. In addition, premorbidity with regard to possible side effects of platelet-reducing drugs as well as the impact on quality of life of such side effects should be considered. The near-to-normal life expectancy and long term nature of treatment also makes it necessary to consider the potential leukaemogenic effects of some cytostatic drugs. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.