Dissertation Title: Diagnosis and Ongoing Testing Required in Cases of Polycythaemia Vera
Abstract
Polycythaemia Vera is an important health problem affecting many people globally. Effective management strategies for this disorder aim to reduce complications by lowering haematocrit levels that mitigate thrombotic risks. Despite a robust advancement of knowledge on the disorder’s pathophysiology and diagnosis, numerous barriers and challenges exist in effectively managing the disease, making it difficult to mitigate complications and improve general patient outcomes. The early therapeutic approaches included skeletal radiation therapy and pharmacological agents that were ineffective and potentially detrimental. The JAK2 mutation identification is the key drive of the PV revolution in diagnosing and managing the disease. The approach allows effective therapies and personalised treatment plans to mitigate the spread of the disease in other parts of the body. The diagnosis of the condition depends on the elevated amount of red blood cell mass and the haematological parameters that differentiate PV from the secondary causes of the disease. Mutations lead to the activation of aberrant signalling haematopoiesis pathways that drive PV’s uncontrolled hematopoietic cell characteristic. Clinicians can support the PV diagnosis by identifying and distinguishing the disorder from other myeloproliferative disorders. The laboratory parameter introduction in the diagnostic exercise provided a more objective approach to the PV diagnosis. It is essential to remain vigilant in the research advancement with the clinical practice and the patient-centred care which fosters an innovation and collaboration culture in addressing the health condition challenges and improving commitment to the improved management of PV.
Keywords: Polycythaemia Vera, diagnosis, management, JAK2 mutation, patient-centred care.