Dr. Begna on Recent Advancements in MPNs

Kebede H. Begna, MD, assistant professor of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, discusses some of the recent advancements in the field of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs).

The advancements have mainly been in terms of diagnosis, Begna explains. Over the last several years, molecular abnormalities have been identified that are thought to be targeted with therapies, including JAK2V6171 and CALR as described in patients with myelofibrosis and essential thrombocytopenia.

Also recently, next-generation sequencing is helping physicians to define more molecular abnormalities, especially regarding prognosis of patients with myelofibrosis. This is a way to help physicians advise patients what direction to go in terms of their treatment.