NCCN Debuts New Guidelines for Myeloproliferative Neoplasms

For the first time, NCCN has published guidelines specifically geared toward treating myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). The first set of guidelines was developed for myelofibrosis (MF), and was presented at the NCCN 22nd Annual Conference. Future guidelines will be issued for polycythemia vera, essential thrombocytopenia, and atypical MPNs. Patients with MF can have an unpredictable course, one that is largely dependent on the presence of certain molecular alterations. Models are currently emerging that take into account molecular factors. Only one drug is currently approved for MF, the oral JAK1/2 inhibitor ruxolitinib, which has been shown to significantly reduce splenomegaly and improve symptoms.