Myelofibrosis

Generality

Myelofibrosis is a bone marrow disease. It affects, in particular, hematopoietic stem cells, used for the production of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.

The alteration of the hematopoietic function of the bone marrow causes a decrease in mature cells in the blood, especially red blood cells; this determines the typical signs of the disease, the main ones being anemia and splenomegaly (enlargement of the spleen); numerous others may also arise symptoms and, sometimes, serious complications. Often, individuals affected by myelofibrosis have a bone marrow altered not only in function but also in structure, in particular, the marrow is rich in collagen fibers, fibrotic precisely.

Today, there are numerous treatment options for myelofibrosis. Although it is possible to replace the defective bone marrow thanks to the transplant from a donor, it is usually preferred to opt for a less invasive therapeutic intervention, aimed at relieving the entire symptoms.