1
|
O'Neill C, O'Connell C. Idiopathic erythrocytosis: A diagnostic and management challenge with emerging areas for exploration. Br J Haematol 2024; 204:774-783. [PMID: 38262687 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.19287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Despite published algorithms for approaching the work-up of erythrocytosis, a significant proportion of patients are left with uncertainty as to its aetiology and prognosis. The term 'idiopathic erythrocytosis' (IE) is applied when known primary and secondary aetiologies have been ruled out. However, the assignment of secondary aetiologies is not always straightforward or evidence based, which can lead to misdiagnosis and heterogeneity in cohort studies. Furthermore, new studies have identified germline or somatic mutations that may affect prognosis. Epidemiological and cohort data are inconsistent as to whether IE increases the risk for complications such as arterial and venous thromboembolism, clonal transformation or comorbid conditions. Randomized trials assessing the role of phlebotomy for long-term management of IE have not been performed, so treatment remains a vexing problem for clinicians. Standardization of terminology and testing strategies, including comprehensive genetic screening in clinical research, are key to refining our understanding of IE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin O'Neill
- Jane Anne Nohl Division of Hematology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Casey O'Connell
- Jane Anne Nohl Division of Hematology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gangat N, Szuber N, Tefferi A. JAK2 unmutated erythrocytosis: 2023 Update on diagnosis and management. Am J Hematol 2023; 98:965-981. [PMID: 36966432 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.26920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023]
Abstract
DISEASE OVERVIEW JAK2 unmutated or non-polycythemia vera (PV) erythrocytosis encompasses a heterogenous spectrum of hereditary and acquired entities. DIAGNOSIS Foremost in the evaluation of erythrocytosis is the exclusion of PV through JAK2 (inclusive of exons 12-15) mutation screening. Initial assessment should also include gathering of previous records on hematocrit (Hct) and hemoglobin (Hgb) levels, in order to streamline the diagnostic process by first distinguishing longstanding from acquired erythrocytosis; subsequent subcategorization is facilitated by serum erythropoietin (Epo) measurement, germline mutation screening, and review of historical data, including comorbid conditions and medication list. Hereditary erythrocytosis constitutes the main culprit in the context of longstanding erythrocytosis, especially when associated with a positive family history. In this regard, a subnormal serum Epo level suggests EPO receptor mutation. Otherwise, considerations include those associated with decreased (high oxygen affinity Hgb variants, 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate deficiency, PIEZO1 mutations, methemoglobinemia) or normal oxygen tension at 50% Hgb saturation (P50). The latter include germline oxygen sensing pathway (HIF2A-PHD2-VHL) and other rare mutations. Acquired erythrocytosis commonly results from central (e.g., cardiopulmonary disease, high-altitude habitat) or peripheral (e.g., renal artery stenosis) hypoxia. Other noteworthy conditions associated with acquired erythrocytosis include Epo-producing tumors (e.g., renal cell carcinoma, cerebral hemangioblastoma) and drugs (e.g., testosterone, erythropoiesis stimulating agents, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors). Idiopathic erythrocytosis is an ill-defined terminology that presumes the existence of an increased Hgb/Hct level without an identifiable etiology. Such classification often lacks accounting for normal outliers and is marred by truncated diagnostic evaluation. MANAGEMENT Current consensus treatment guidelines are not supported by hard evidence and their value is further undermined by limited phenotypic characterization and unfounded concerns for thrombosis. We are of the opinion that cytoreductive therapy and indiscriminate use of phlebotomy should be avoided in the treatment of non-clonal erythrocytosis. However, it is reasonable to consider therapeutic phlebotomy if one were to demonstrate value in symptom control, with frequency determined by symptoms rather than Hct level. In addition, cardiovascular risk optimization and low dose aspirin is often advised. FUTURE DIRECTIONS Advances in molecular hematology might result in better characterization of "idiopathic erythrocytosis" and expansion of the repertoire for germline mutations in hereditary erythrocytosis. Prospective controlled studies are needed to clarify potential pathology from JAK2 unmutated erythrocytosis, as well as to document the therapeutic value of phlebotomy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naseema Gangat
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Natasha Szuber
- Department of Hematology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Ayalew Tefferi
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Larsson AE, Andréasson B, Holmberg H, Liljeholm M, Själander A. Erythrocytosis, thrombocytosis, and rate of recurrent thromboembolic event-A population based cohort study. Eur J Haematol 2023; 110:608-617. [PMID: 36725666 DOI: 10.1111/ejh.13938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The management to reduce risk of thromboembolic complications in polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia are well established, but for other conditions with elevated hemoglobin, hematocrit, or platelets there are no consensus regarding treatment and follow up. AIMS To assess frequency of elevated blood values in patients with thromboembolic event, how many of these should be investigated further regarding myeloproliferative neoplasm and if the risk of recurrent event is depending on underlying condition. METHODS Retrospective cohort study of 3931 adult patients in the county of Norrbotten, Sweden, with thromboembolism during 2017 and 2018. RESULTS Of the 3931 patients, 1195 had either elevated Hb, HCT, or platelets fulfilling the 2016 revised WHO criteria for PV and ET, and out of these 411 should be evaluated regarding underlying myeloproliferative neoplasms. Unexplained thrombocytosis and secondary erythrocytosis were associated with the highest rate of recurrent event as well as the most inferior restricted mean survival time. CONCLUSION Elevated blood values are common in patients with thromboembolic event and the high risk of recurrent event and inferior restricted mean survival time in patients with unexplained thrombocytosis and secondary erythrocytosis implicates the importance of finding and managing the underlying condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Henrik Holmberg
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umea University, Umea, Sweden
| | - Maria Liljeholm
- Department of Radiation Sciences, Umea University, Umea, Sweden
| | - Anders Själander
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umea University, Umea, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ernest V, Abbou N, Tichadou A, Arcani R, Venton G. Characteristics of JAK2 unmutated erythrocytosis: Distinctive traits between polycythemia vera and non-polycythemia vera patients. Eur J Intern Med 2023; 107:113-115. [PMID: 36096924 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2022.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Ernest
- Laboratory of Hemostasis, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), CHU La Timone, Marseille, France
| | - Norman Abbou
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), CHU NORD, Marseille, France
| | - Antoine Tichadou
- Hematology and Cellular Therapy Department, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), CHU La Conception, Marseille, France
| | - Robin Arcani
- Internal Medicine and Therapeutics Department, CHU La Timone, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), Marseille, France; Center for Cardiovascular and Nutrition Research (C2VN), INRA 1260, INSERM UMR_S 1263, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France.
| | - Geoffroy Venton
- Hematology and Cellular Therapy Department, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM), CHU La Conception, Marseille, France
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Anžej Doma S, Drnovšek E, Kristan A, Fink M, Sever M, Podgornik H, Belčič Mikič T, Debeljak N, Preložnik Zupan I. Diagnosis and management of non-clonal erythrocytosis remains challenging: a single centre clinical experience. Ann Hematol 2021; 100:1965-1973. [PMID: 34013406 PMCID: PMC8285333 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-021-04546-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Erythrocytosis has a diverse background. While polycythaemia vera has well defined criteria, the diagnostic approach and management of other types of erythrocytosis are more challenging. The aim of study was to retrospectively analyse the aetiology and management of non-clonal erythrocytosis patients referred to a haematology outpatient clinic in an 8-year period using a 3-step algorithm. The first step was inclusion of patients with Hb > 185 g/L and/or Hct > 0.52 in men and Hb > 165 g/L and/or Hct > 0.48 in women on two visits ≥ two months apart, thus confirming true erythrocytosis. Secondly, polycythaemia vera was excluded and secondary causes of erythrocytosis (SE) identified. Thirdly, idiopathic erythrocytosis patients (IE) were referred to next-generation sequencing for possible genetic background evaluation. Of the 116 patients, 75 (65%) are men and 41 (35%) women, with non-clonal erythrocytosis 34/116 (29%) had SE, 15/116 (13%) IE and 67/116 (58%) stayed incompletely characterized (ICE). Patients with SE were significantly older and had significantly higher Hb and Hct compared to patients with IE. Most frequently, SE was attributed to obstructive sleep apnoea and smoking. Phlebotomies were performed in 56, 53 and 40% of patients in the SE, IE, and ICE group, respectively. Approx. 70% of patients in each group received aspirin. Thrombotic events were registered in 12, 20 and 15% of SE, IE and ICE patients, respectively. Congenital erythrocytosis type 4 (ECYT4) was diagnosed in one patient. The study demonstrates real-life management of non-clonal erythrocytosis which could be optimized using a 3-step diagnostic algorithm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saša Anžej Doma
- Department of Haematology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloška 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Korytkova 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Eva Drnovšek
- Department of Haematology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloška 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Medical Centre for Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov trg 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Aleša Kristan
- Medical Centre for Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov trg 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Martina Fink
- Department of Haematology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloška 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Matjaž Sever
- Department of Haematology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloška 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Korytkova 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Helena Podgornik
- Department of Haematology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloška 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Aškerčeva 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tanja Belčič Mikič
- Department of Haematology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloška 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Korytkova 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nataša Debeljak
- Medical Centre for Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov trg 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Irena Preložnik Zupan
- Department of Haematology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloška 7, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia. .,Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Korytkova 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
The Journey of Primary Myelofibrosis to Splenic Marginal Zone Lymphoma on the Wheels of Ruxolitinib. Indian J Hematol Blood Transfus 2021; 37:186-188. [PMID: 33707858 DOI: 10.1007/s12288-020-01320-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
|
7
|
Gangat N, Szuber N, Pardanani A, Tefferi A. JAK2 unmutated erythrocytosis: current diagnostic approach and therapeutic views. Leukemia 2021; 35:2166-2181. [PMID: 34021251 PMCID: PMC8324477 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-021-01290-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
JAK2 unmutated or non-polycythemia vera (PV) erythrocytosis encompasses both hereditary and acquired conditions. A systematic diagnostic approach begins with documentation of historical hematocrit (Hct)/hemoglobin (Hgb) measurements and classification of the process as life-long/unknown duration or acquired. Further investigation in both categories is facilitated by determination of serum erythropoietin level (EPO). Workup for hereditary/congenital erythrocytosis requires documentation of family history and laboratory screening for high-oxygen affinity hemoglobin variants, 2, 3 biphosphoglycerate deficiency, and germline mutations that are known to alter cellular oxygen sensing (e.g., PHD2, HIF2A, VHL) or EPO signaling (e.g., EPOR mutations); the latter is uniquely associated with subnormal EPO. Acquired erythrocytosis is often elicited by central or peripheral hypoxia resulting from cardiopulmonary disease/high-altitude dwelling or renal artery stenosis, respectively; EPO in the former instance is often normal (compensated by negative feed-back). Other conditions associated with acquired erythrocytosis include EPO-producing tumors and the use of drugs that promote erythropoiesis (e.g., testosterone, erythropoiesis stimulating agents). "Idiopathic erythrocytosis" loosely refers to an otherwise not explained situation. Historically, management of non-PV erythrocytosis has been conflicted by unfounded concerns regarding thrombosis risk, stemming from limited phenotypic characterization, save for Chuvash polycythemia, well-known for its thrombotic tendency. In general, cytoreductive therapy should be avoided and phlebotomy is seldom warranted where frequency is determined by symptom control rather than Hct threshold. Although not supported by hard evidence, cardiovascular risk optimization and low-dose aspirin use are often advised. Application of modern genetic tests and development of controlled therapeutic intervention trials are needed to advance current clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naseema Gangat
- grid.66875.3a0000 0004 0459 167XDivision of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN USA
| | - Natasha Szuber
- grid.14848.310000 0001 2292 3357Department of Hematology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC Canada
| | - Animesh Pardanani
- grid.66875.3a0000 0004 0459 167XDivision of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN USA
| | - Ayalew Tefferi
- grid.66875.3a0000 0004 0459 167XDivision of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Khurana H, Lakshman P, Kumar K, Jain A. Dissecting Primary Erythrocytosis Among Polycythemia Patients Referred to an Indian Armed Forces Hospital. Indian J Hematol Blood Transfus 2020; 36:187-191. [PMID: 32158103 DOI: 10.1007/s12288-019-01155-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Referrals for evaluation of polycythemia cases have increased since the hemoglobin (Hb) thresholds for diagnosis of Polycythemia Vera (PV) have been lowered by WHO. The current study enrolled patients of age > 18 years from the Indian Armed Forces or their family members with polycythemia from November 2016 to October 2018. After exclusion of secondary causes, 49 patients were diagnosed as Primary Erythrocytosis (PE). The patients were classified into two groups: PV and Idiopathic Erythrocytosis (IE) and a systematic comparison of clinical and laboratory features of the two groups was done. The prevalence of PV in PE was 20.4% (10 of 49) while the rest 39 (79.6%) had IE. Seven PV patients had JAK2 V617F mutation, one had JAK2 Exon12 mutation, and two were JAK2 negative PV. Nine of 10 (90%) PV patients had Hb > 18.5 g/dl, while only 21 of 39 (53.8%) IE patients had Hb > 18.5 g/dl (p = 0.06). None of the JAK2 mutated patients had Hb < 18.5 g/dl. We conclude that PV is more prevalent in patients of PE with Hb > 18.5 g/dl. Most patients with Hb between 16.5-18.5 g/dl would still be classified as IE. We advocate the need for further studies evaluating the utility of investigating all patients of PE with the revised WHO Hb threshold as well as studies on genetic profile of IE patients from India.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harshit Khurana
- 1Medical Division, Command Hospital Air Force (CHAF), Bangalore, Karnataka India
| | - Praveen Lakshman
- 1Medical Division, Command Hospital Air Force (CHAF), Bangalore, Karnataka India
| | - Kishore Kumar
- 1Medical Division, Command Hospital Air Force (CHAF), Bangalore, Karnataka India
| | - Arihant Jain
- 2Department of Internal Medicine (Clinical Hematology Division), Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
| |
Collapse
|