Immunotherapy enquiry

Hi, I am quite newly diagnosed with polycythemia vera (in my 30's). I wondered if you have ever come across any type of immunotherapy for this condition, I appreciate this treatment may be not be offered on the NHS but would be grateful for any further information. 

Many thanks

  • Hello and thanks for posting,

    There are various lines of treatments used, depending on the patient's current clinical situation, and what the specialist thinks is appropriate to use at a given time.

    Blood Cancer UK has information on this here,

    bloodcancer.org.uk/.../

    Interferon is often used in younger patients. Ruxolitinib is a type of drug known as a JAK2 inhibitor. These come under the loose umbrella term of immunotherapy drugs. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, this drug hasn't been approved for routine use on the NHS for people with PV, but it may sometimes be offered.

    Do speak with your hospital team, and they can advise you more specifically, as they are directly involved in your clinical care.

    Wishing you the best,

    Vanda