What Is Myelofibrosis Leukemia?
Myelofibrosis leukemia is a chronic condition in which scar tissue supplants the cells in bone marrow responsible for creating blood. This causes the red blood cells to become abnormally shaped and causes swelling of the spleen. The disease can occur on its own or escort other blood conditions.
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Identification
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Myelofibrosis leukemia is usually diagnosed when a patient has a swollen spleen or abnormal blood counts, according to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. A determination can be made after a complete blood count if the results indicate a decrease in red blood cells or an increase in white blood cells or platelets. In addition to blood work, a bone marrow biopsy will be conducted to see if any abnormality exists.
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Effects
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Those with myelofibrosis leukemia may suffer from fatigue, sluggishness, difficulty breathing, loss of weight, night sweats, bone soreness and an increase in the size of the spleen. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society states that it is possible for someone with myelofibrosis leukemia not to show any symptoms at all.
Expert Insight
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The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society reports that nearly 20 percent of patients with myelofibrosis leukemia can survive 10 years after being diagnosed with the condition by receiving treatment. In most cases, a person has five years to live after the leukemia is detected.
Warning
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The Metzger Law Group, a California firm that concentrates in litigation of toxic injuries, reports that myelofibrosis leukemia may be caused due to being exposed to certain toxic substances, such as ionizing radiation. Workers at petroleum refineries or chemical plants can be at risk of myelofibrosis leukemia.
Prevention/Solution
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The Quincy Medical Group in Quincy, Illinois, reports that there is no specific treatment for myelofibrosis leukemia. The goal of treatment is to provide relieve from the symptoms. Treatment can include blood transfusions, chemotherapy, medicines to increase red blood cell creation and removal of the spleen. Bone marrow transplants sometimes help the prognosis in younger people.
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