Common myeloproliferative disorders are: 

• Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) 
• Polycythaemia vera – over–production of red blood cells that carry oxygen around the body 
• Essential thrombocythaemia – overproduction of platelets that help the blood clot 
• Primary myelofibrosis – excessive fibrosis (connective tissue build-up) in the bone marrow 

There are also very rare myeloproliferative disorders that don’t fall into any of the groups above.  

Most often people with myeloproliferative disorders are diagnosed after a routine blood test done for other purposes. It’s not uncommon for you to have no symptoms associated with the disease. Doctors typically use blood tests to diagnose myeloproliferative disorders.

You might also have some other tests, including: 

• Bone marrow aspirate biopsy
• CT scan 
• Blood tests for specific genetic mutations 

If you do have symptoms, they might include: 

• Headaches 
• Tiredness 
• Bruising or bleeding 
• Blurred vision 
• Ringing in your ears 
• Loss of weight 
• Itching 
• Blood clots 
• Loss of weight 
• Abdominal bloating 

• Venesection – this is a simple procedure for people with a high red blood cell count. You will have around a pint of blood removed at a regular frequency, which will reduce the number of red cells in your blood 
• Drugs to control the blood count – often mild chemotherapy tablets  
• Targeted therapy – Medicines which directly target the abnormal proteins in the proliferating bone marrow cells 
• Bone marrow or stem cell transplant from a donor – this treatment aims to cure a myeloproliferative disorder 

Our dedicated cancer centres are convenient and easy-to-access. You can use your private medical insurance, and we’re recognised by all leading insurers. 

We are proud that so many patients rate our care as excellent as we help them through their cancer journey. Find out more about the unique experiences of people who have had their cancer diagnosis or treatment at GenesisCare in our patient stories section.