PV Flashcards
What is the relationship between elevated Hct levels (45%-50%) and cardiovascular death?
A 4-fold higher rate of cardiovascular death and major thrombosis is associated with elevated Hct levels between 45%-50% compared to Hct levels of <45%.
This indicates that maintaining Hct levels below 45% is crucial for reducing cardiovascular risks.
What WBC count is associated with an increased risk of thrombosis?
WBC counts >11 x 10^9/L are associated with an increased risk of thrombosis.
This finding was based on a multivariable time-dependent analysis.
What is the golden takeaway regarding strict HCT control?
Any hematocrit level above 45% needs action.
The recommendation emphasizes that even levels slightly above 45% are considered problematic.
Define Polycythemia Vera (PV).
PV is a rare, chronic blood cancer where the body makes too many red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
PV is part of a group of diseases called myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs).
What effect do too many red blood cells have on blood flow?
Too many red blood cells can cause the blood to thicken, which affects normal blood flow through arteries and veins.
This thickening can lead to various complications, including thrombosis.
What is hematocrit (HCT)?
HCT is the percentage by volume of red cells in the blood.
Blood comprises red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, which together make up about 45% of blood volume.
What is phlebotomy?
Phlebotomy is a procedure in which blood is taken from a vein, usually for laboratory testing or to remove extra red blood cells.
It is also referred to as a blood draw or venipuncture.
What is the function of hemoglobin (Hb)?
Hb is the protein in red blood cells responsible for the delivery of oxygen to tissues.
Sufficient hemoglobin levels are necessary to ensure adequate tissue oxygenation.
Fill in the blank: Hemoglobin levels in whole blood are expressed in _______.
grams per deciliter (g/dl)
Maintaining proper hemoglobin levels is crucial for health.
What is phlebotomy?
A procedure where a needle is used to take blood from a vein, usually for testing or medical treatment
Also known as a blood draw or venipuncture. It can be used to remove excess red blood cells in certain conditions.
What is hemoglobin (Hb)?
A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body
Important for overall health as tissues need enough oxygen to function properly.
What is the function of the spleen?
Filters blood, stores certain blood cells, and produces white blood cells that fight infections
Located under the left ribs, near the stomach.
What does hematocrit (HCT) measure?
The percentage of blood made up of red blood cells
Normally, red blood cells make up about 45% of total blood volume.
What is thrombosis?
A condition where a blood clot forms inside a blood vessel or the heart
Can lead to blocked blood flow, stroke, or heart attack.
What is thrombocytopenia?
A condition characterized by having too few platelets
Can result in easy bruising or excessive bleeding.
What is the mechanism of action for Jakafi® (Ruxolitinib)?
Blocks specific proteins (JAK1 and JAK2) involved in inflammation and blood cell production
Helps reduce abnormal blood cell growth and inflammation.
What were the goals of the Comfort Studies I & II?
To evaluate how well Jakafi works for myelofibrosis patients compared to a placebo or best available therapy
Aimed to assess spleen shrinkage and symptom reduction.
What was a key finding from the Comfort Studies I & II?
About 28% of patients saw their spleen shrink by 35% or more
Jakafi improved symptoms like tiredness, night sweats, and itching in 46% of patients.
What does the term ‘Post Hoc Analysis’ refer to in the context of the Comfort Studies?
Re-examining the original study results for additional insights
Aimed to find further useful information beyond initial findings.
What was a finding from the JUMP Study regarding Jakafi?
About 60% of patients had some spleen size reduction
Symptoms improved for most patients, with a safety profile similar to clinical trials.
What did the CYTO-PV analysis find regarding white blood cell counts?
A 4-fold increase in the risk of major thrombosis among patients with white blood cell counts above 11.
What percentage of patients receiving ruxolitinib achieved the combined primary endpoint in the RESPONSE study?
23%
Compared to less than 1% of those who received best available therapy.
What percentage of patients receiving ruxolitinib achieved complete hematologic remission?
24%
Those patients had a 55% probability of maintaining it at 5 years.
What type of trial was the MAJIC-PV study?
Open-label, phase 2, randomized, controlled trial.
