Polycythemia Vera (PV) Wake up!

In the fall of 2006, I applied for life insurance and had a blood test. The policy was denied because my blood cell counts were abnormally high. The platelet count had risen from normal 300,000 ("300") to over 600 and by year end - over 1,300. Platelets cause clotting in the blood - and strokes and heart attacks.

Luckily, Dr. Joseph Prchal at the Huntsman Cancer Institute is world-renown for his understanding of the JAK-2 stem cell mutation which causes unchecked production of stem cells and blood cell production in the bone marrow. DNA testing showed that I have a rare cancer-like mutation which, untreated, often leads to strokes and heart attacks. It is incurable, but can be treated with daily doses of a chemotherapy to kill excess stem cells and the associated blood cells. I am part of a life-long study of the Myleoproliferative Disorder called "Polycythemia Vera" or "PV".

So - after a huge wake-up call, I take a daily dosage of two drugs to reduce PV to a background nuisance. The typical prognosis is for a normal life for some number of years. With enough time and a good attitude for now, the scary nature of PV has been reduced to a schedule of medication and regular blood sampling.

I have great respect and appreciation for the ongoing efforts of Dr. Prchal and his associates at the Huntsman Center. It has become a friendly place to visit.