Polycythemia Vera (PV) Education | Blood Cancer
Polycythemia Vera (PV)
Polycythemia vera (PV) is a rare type of myeloid cancer marked by the overproduction of red blood cells (erythrocytosis) in the bone marrow.1 This increase in red blood cells thickens the blood, which may raise the risk of serious cardiovascular and thrombotic events, such as stroke, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism.2,3,4
PV affects approximately 155,000 people in the United States and a similar number across Europe. The median age at diagnosis is 60 years.1
Hematocrit (HCT) and Disease Management
In PV, the key treatment goal is to achieve and maintain a hematocrit (HCT) level below 45%. HCT refers to the proportion of red blood cells relative to the total blood volume.5
- Controlled HCT can reduce the risk of clotting events and alleviate symptoms.5
- Common approaches to reduce HCT include phlebotomy (removal of blood from the body) and medications designed to lower red blood cell counts.6
Current Treatment Approaches
Despite available treatment strategies:
- Up to 78% of patients in real-world studies have uncontrolled HCT and continue to suffer symptoms of PV.6
- Phlebotomy may help reduce HCT, but could also:
- Contribute to iron deficiency.
- Cause or worsen symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, weakness or visual disturbances.
- Lead to a burden on patients’ quality of life. 7,8
Symptoms and Impact
Patients with PV may experience a range of symptoms that affect daily life:
- Headaches
- Fatigue or weakness
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Visual changes
- Night sweats
- Itching (pruritus)
- Difficulty concentrating
Not every patient will experience the same set or severity of symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Polycythemia vera (PV) is a rare, chronic blood cancer in which the bone marrow makes too many red blood cells. This can lead to thicker blood and an increased risk of blood clots.
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of blood tests (including complete blood count, or CBC), bone marrow evaluation.
PV most often affects individuals over the age of 60, although it can occur at younger ages. Both men and women can develop PV.
If not managed, PV can increase the likelihood of blood clots, strokes, heart attacks or other thrombotic events.
Regular blood tests and physician follow-ups are important to check hematocrit levels, track symptoms, and monitor disease progression.
Note: These FAQs are for educational purposes only and do not substitute medical advice. Patients should always consult their healthcare provider.
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References
- Lu X, Chang R. Polycythemia Vera. [Updated 2023 Apr 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557660/
- Marchioli R, et al. N Engl J Med 2013; 368:22-33
- Kaifie A, et al. J Hematol Oncol 2016;9:18.
- Polycythemia vera: the natural history of 1213 patients followed for 20 years. Gruppo Italiano Studio Policitemia. Ann Intern Med 1995;123(9):656-664.
- Barbui T, et al. Leukemia 2018; 32(5), 1057-1069.
- Verstovsek S, et al. Ann Hematol. 2023 Mar, 102(3):571-581
- Mesa R, et al. BMC Cancer. 2016;16,167.
- Ginzburg et al. Leukemia 2018;32:2105-2116.