3. Abdominal Pain Or Discomfort
Abdominal pain or discomfort in myelofibrosis is caused by splenomegaly which can press on the stomach and cause pain.
The abdominal pain and discomfort can also be caused by infiltration of other organs such as the liver and pancreas. Myelofibrosis can also cause constipation, which can add to more abdominal pain or discomfort.
2. Fever
The causes of fever in myelofibrosis can be varied. The most common causes include infection, inflammation, and splenic infarction, a condition in which the blood flow to the spleen is blocked.
Individuals with myelofibrosis may be more susceptible to infections due to a decrease in white blood cells which are responsible for fighting off infection. This can lead to fever as the body’s immune system fights off the infection.
1. Anemia
Excessive fibrous tissue can cause anemia because it interferes with the normal production of blood cells. This includes the red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the body’s tissues.
The enlarged spleen can further decrease the number of circulating red blood cells by trapping and destroying them. The abnormal bone marrow can also lead to an increased number of immature cells that are not able to perform their normal function of producing healthy blood cells, leading to anemia.
Treatments And Care
One of the most significant effects of the disease is the replacement of healthy bone marrow with fibrous tissue, which can interfere with the production of blood cells.
At the same time, the formation of scar tissue in the bone marrow can cause the spleen to enlarge, which can put pressure on other organs and cause pain and discomfort.
Myelofibrosis can also increase the risk of developing more serious conditions such as acute leukemia and blood clots.
Thus, it is important to treat myelofibrosis to alleviate symptoms, slow the progression of the disease, and reduce the risk of developing these more serious complications.
9. Blood Transfusions
Blood transfusions can provide a temporary increase in the number of red blood cells. They can also provide platelets that can help prevent bleeding.
Blood transfusions can provide the necessary blood cells to keep the patient’s condition stable until more definitive treatment can be performed. During the transfusion, the recipient’s blood flows through the IV line and the donated blood components are added to the recipient’s bloodstream.
8. Androgen Therapy
Androgen therapy is a treatment option for myelofibrosis that involves the use of male hormones to reduce the symptoms of the disease.
Androgens are known to inhibit the activity of cells that produce fibrosis. Their use can help to reduce the formation of scar tissue in the bone marrow, which is a hallmark of myelofibrosis.
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