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What's the difference between essential thrombocythemia (ET) with a CALR mutation and polycythemia vera (PV)?

The main difference lies in which blood cells are overproduced and the genetic mutations involved.

Essential Thrombocythemia (ET) with CALR mutation
- Causes too many platelets to be produced
- CALR gene Show Full Answer

What's the difference between essential thrombocythemia (ET) with a CALR mutation and polycythemia vera (PV)?

The main difference lies in which blood cells are overproduced and the genetic mutations involved.

Essential Thrombocythemia (ET) with CALR mutation:
- Causes too many platelets to be produced
- CALR gene mutations occur in some ET cases (along with JAK2 or MPL mutations)
- Leads to abnormal blood clotting and blockages in blood vessels
- May also cause excessive bleeding
- More common in women, usually diagnosed between ages 50-70

Polycythemia Vera (PV):
- Causes too many red blood cells (and sometimes white blood cells and platelets)
- Almost always involves a JAK2 gene mutation (specifically JAK2V617F in about 95% of cases)
- The abnormal cells are especially sensitive to erythropoietin (EPO), a hormone that increases red blood cell production
- Also leads to blood clot formation and similar complications

Both conditions can cause serious complications like heart attack, stroke, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism due to blood clots. However, they're distinguished by which blood cells are primarily affected and their specific genetic profiles.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Essential Thrombocythemia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Polycythemia Vera: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments