There is no specific treatment for primary myelofibrosis. Blood transfusions are given to correct anemia. Recombinant erythropoietin or androgens may stimulate red blood cell production and may be beneficial. A splenectomy (removal of the spleen) may help if the enlarged size of the spleen causes symptoms. Radiation and chemotherapy may also be used. In young people, bone marrow transplants appear to improve the outlook.
Expectations (prognosis):
The average survival of people with primary myelofibrosis is about 5 years. However, many people survive for decades. In the end stages, myelofibrosis is a wasting, debilitating illness.
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of this disorder develop. Uncontrolled bleeding, shortness of breath, jaundice, and progressive confusion are symptoms that indicate a need for urgent or emergency care.
Review Date: 4/15/2005
Reviewed By: Rita Nanda, MD, Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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