How is your body responding to changes in hydroxyurea (HU) dosing with these blood count fluctuations?
It sounds like you're dealing with some confusing blood work results. Anemia with MPNs can be tricky because it has multiple causes, and your body might be experiencing inflammation, which can affect your ferritin levels Show Full Answer
How is your body responding to changes in hydroxyurea (HU) dosing with these blood count fluctuations?
It sounds like you're dealing with some confusing blood work results. Anemia with MPNs can be tricky because it has multiple causes, and your body might be experiencing inflammation, which can affect your ferritin levels and iron storage.
High ferritin alongside anemia often indicates inflammation in the body. This is actually common in myelofibrosis and can contribute to what's called "functional iron deficiency" - where your body has iron stored but can't use it properly to make healthy red blood cells.
Regarding the hydroxyurea adjustment: this makes sense because HU can worsen anemia in some people. Some myMPNteam members have shared that hydroxyurea caused them to become anemic, even requiring blood transfusions in severe cases. Your doctor is likely reducing the dose to help your red blood cell production recover.
Keep in mind that hydroxyurea isn't recommended for people with severe anemia, so your healthcare team is taking the right approach by adjusting your treatment. Never stop or change your medication without talking to your doctor first, even if symptoms are frustrating.
Make sure to discuss with your doctor:
- Whether the anemia is related to your MPN progression
- If inflammation is playing a role
- What your target blood counts should be
- Whether you need iron supplementation or other support
Your treatment plan may need further adjustments as your body responds to the lower HU dose.
February 27
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