by David Wallace For years, the medical community has told us the same thing when we’re diagnosed with early-stage myeloproliferative neoplasms: “Let’s watch and wait.” The thinking was straightforward: why expose someone to treatment side effects when they’re not yet symptomatic? But a study published this December in the journal Cancers is challenging that entire […]
Interferon Treatment for MPNs: What You Need to Know
by David Wallace The Big Picture If you’ve been diagnosed with a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) such as polycythemia vera, essential thrombocythemia, or myelofibrosis, you’ve likely heard about interferon therapy. Keep reading to discover what current research tells us about this treatment option. What Exactly Is Interferon? Think of interferon as your body’s natural antiviral security […]
Theories on Treatment of Polycythemia Vera with Interferon-β
Simple Summary The myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are chronic blood cancers characterized by elevated blood cell counts and, after decades, the development of bone marrow failure. Blood clots are common and contribute massively to the symptom burden. Treatment with interferon (IFN) alpha-2 normalizes elevated blood cell counts within weeks to months. This treatment has been used […]
MPN Patient Advocacy Works!
by David Wallace I got my first shot of Pegasys 3 days ago, along with my local doctor’s agreement to monitor my counts. It was not without a HARD push on my part, as Doc was still pushing the benefits of HU (hydroxyurea), while reinforcing the numerous risks with Peg. For once, I was glad […]
BESREMi, Ropeginterferon FDA approved Treatment for PV
by David Wallace Patients are Asking – MPN Expert Dr. Ghaith Abu-Zeinah discusses Ropeginterferon (BESREMi), new Treatment for Polycythemia Vera Episode 3 of 3 Ropeginterferon / BESREMi was recently approved by the FDA to treat polycythemia vera. Should I switch from Pegasys to the new FDA approved interferon? How might BESREMi change the treatment paradigm […]
