Essential Thrombocythemia: Looking for information and support
I was recently diagnosed with Essential Thrombocythemia, a rare incurable blood cancer. Platelet count aside, I am asymptotic. This current condition morphed from (constitutional) thrombcytosis, something I’ve lived with for 25+ years. While the new diagnosis was the result of a bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, my age was an additional factor, which was completely disarming, having been walking around unwittingly for the past 8 years! While at the low end of risk for clots, heart-attacks and stroke, nothing has truly changed - except the “C” word. No chemo yet, but active discussion about hydroxyurea. Uncertainty about ET is anxiety provoking and swoethatl, but I’m feeling betrayed by my blood. I’m looking for all information about ET, the chemo and support.
Thanks!
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Blood Cancers & Disorders Support Group.
Leukemia Lymphoma Society go to LLS.org A wonderful organization, with very important information. Just sign up your email on their website
MPN encompasses 3 "levels" of disease LLS will explain it all
Yes, I have that. I fill my hot water bottle with cool water and put my feet on it under the covers. Keeping feet moisturized and using drugstore hydrocortisone cream on the prickles seems to help me. ET patients also seem to be associated with erythromelalgia. Would be interested in what your doc says!
Recently diagnosed with ET with JAK2& in a few months of daily HU my platelet count has dropped into the normal range so I'm feeling hopeful, but I know there's a lot to learn. What kind of "worse neoplasm/cancer" might it progress to? What email list are you referring to & how do I get on it? Many thanks to all.
Have any of my other ETers had any problems with their feet? I am one for wrapping up at night and for the past few months I have had to have my feet out from under the blankets. They do not hurt but feel as though they are asleep without the pringly/pricklyl feeling. If I close my toes it feels like my feet are swollen but they are not. Last night they felt very hot on the inside. I see my hematologist Tuesday I will mention it to him but wanted to ask you guys first
I have asked my hematologist several times was this a type of cancer. Each time he says no, not now. Very puzzling!!
For what it’s worth, some docs call this a cancer while others say it’s a neoplasm. Work with your heme doc. Ask questions. In some cases, a bone marrow biopsy may be recommended. For others, it might be a DNA / genetic test.
Suggest you do an online search for the MPN Foundation. Lot’s of good info!
Best wishes,
Sherry
ET w/Jak2
Also the Leukemia/Lymphoma have wonderful in-person conferences, so if you get on the email list, you will be notified if any conferences in your area. ET is one of the MPN (MyeloProliferative Neoplasm)......It is also important to have regular blood tests, because it can progress to a worse neoplasm/cancer, ET is considered a chronic cancer. All the best......
ET is a cancer because our bodies are producing cells abnormally.
For most ETrs, this is due to a mutation of one of the three proteins that govern platelet production. When those "driver" proteins mutate, they push our bone marrow into frantic over-production of platelets.
Cancer is a scary word, and so is chemo.
I personally find that accepting I have a chronic cancer motivates me to take my HU, and to work out every day to keep my cardiovascular system strong.
Knowing I'm not alone with this weird gremlin helps tremendously too!!!
I also was diagnosed with ET given Hydrea 500mg every other day. I have been on this medication for three years.
my platelets went from 700 down to 350.
I still do not understand why they call this blood disease a form of cancer....however, i just listen to my hematologist and take blood tests every six months.
hope this helps.
I was diagnosed in 2020 and have been on HU. The Leukemia/LymphomaSociety has a wonderful website and will send you info in mail. http://www.LLS.org Knowledge is Power.....all the best....