MPN specialist

[dbus1417]

Got a second look from an mpn specialist yesterday here in Houston, TX and I am glad I took Hunter’s advice. I was happy with my hemo but just couldn’t get behind the idea of taking hydrea for 30+ years (God willing.)

I was told that if treatment ever becomes indicated for me, interferons would be a better fit for me considering my age and relative good health. I was also informed of many new trials (some of which my new hemonc is leading) which made me feel like I will have options!

I turn 39 in a couple weeks (ET CALR) and have been pretty asymptomatic one year after diagnosis. I know I am lucky to have the medical center in Houston so close by but if you’re unsatisfied or having second thoughts about seeing a specialist do not hesitate.

I know this isn’t any breaking news but wanted to share something positive. Hope everyone is getting along well.

[Peetzil]

Hi maybe not breaking news, but great news for you! Glad your second opinion paid off all sounds very positive!Lynn

[Solyesh]

Great news! And the continued development of new options offers us all hope! Thanks!

[hunter5582]

Good news! Expert consultation makes a big difference. By the time you need cytoreduction, if ever, you will have more options than we have now,

All the best.

[monarch5000]

Something to think about: What happens when a medical doctor is diagnosed with ET? Do they wait around for months to years to see if the malignancy will grow and if their blood counts and symptoms will worsen? Or are they inclined to intervene immediately with a treatment that may slow or halt progression? Here a newly diagnosed veterinarian with a platelet count of 600 explained why she wanted a prescription for Pegasys interferon immediately and was having alot of trouble obtaining one: imagizer.imageshack.com/img...

[EPguy in reply to monarch5000]

That letter summarizes what we all talk about. One missing item is the Dr's VAF%.

The Dr says a version of my idea on IFN, I'd rather try it and find it did/does not make a difference that not try it and learn it would have.