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White Blood Cell Count Control in Polycythemia Vera (PV) Management: A Quiz Journey

PV Management Question 2


Transcript

The correct answer means that WBC over 12 remains significantly associated with thrombotic events. We come to the conclusion from this based on the results of the REVEAL study that showed that even hematocrit that would be controlled below 45%, which is currently a guide for patients being controlled. If they had persistent leukocytosis over 12, that remains significantly associated with risk for thrombosis. Although even white cell count over 11 was associated with approximately 2 times increased risk of thrombotic event compared with white cell count less than 11, this was not statistically significant. But a gain of 12 and above was significant, despite the hematocrit being below 45%. 

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References

  1. Marchetti M, Vannucchi AM, Griesshammer M, et al. Appropriate management of polycythaemia vera with cytoreductive drug therapy: European LeukemiaNet 2021 recommendations. Lancet Haematol. 2022;9(4):e301-e311. doi:10.1016/S2352-3026(22)00046-1 
  2. ELN 2021 guideline recommendations for polycythemia vera. MPN Hub. May 10, 2022. Accessed April 15, 2026. https://mpn-hub.com/medical-information/eln-2021-guideline-recommendations-for-polycythemia-vera 
  3. Gerds AT, Mesa R, Burke JM, et al. Association between elevated white blood cell counts and thrombotic events in polycythemia vera: analysis from REVEAL. Blood. 2024;143(16):1646-1655. doi:10.1182/blood.2023020232 
  4. Grunwald MR, Burke JM, Kuter DJ, et al. Symptom burden and blood counts in patients with polycythemia vera in the United States: an analysis from the REVEAL study. Clin Lymphoma Myeloma Leuk. 2019;19(9):579-584.e1. doi:10.1016/j.clml.2019.06.001 

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