MPN and corticosteroids

[trainerliz]

My son with ET Jak2+ has just found out he has an allergy to penicillin, after taking it for strep throat. He's now on a high level of antihistamines and a corticosteroids.

Has anyone had any adverse bleeding reactions to these drugs? His platelets are high enough that Von Willebrand hasn't been ruled out. Alternatively, I've read that they can cause blood clotting.

I spoke with his doc before about corticosteroids, but haven't reached them yet today with this news.

Any thoughts or experience from anyone in this knowledgeable group?

[hunter5582]

i had to take a fairly high dose of a steroid following a brain surgery. I was also taking heparin at the same time to prevent post-surgical thrombosis. I was monitored closely. I had no issues with bleeding but did need insulin injections to manage the spike in blood sugar. Note that I was on a relatively high dose.

Suggest running this question past a MPN Specialist for the most accurate answer to your concern,

[rcan_sMF]

Hi Liz,

Sorry to hear about your son’s difficulties. If you’re willing it would help in responding to know:

- How high is his most recent platelet count? Steroid dosage?

- Is he currently on any meds for his ET?

- Age or approximate if you wish to keep it private?

In general, corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone) are more likely to affect platelet counts - and with ET you are wise to seek your consultant’s counsel. Has he been prescribed/used steroids previously?

Assuming a reply, I’ll get back quickly. Like Hunter, I have some experience with this but your consultants counsel should always be your go-to

Regards. ….Bob - US -Boston

[havashan]

I just finished a 6 day course of steroids for back pain. I have ET and take Peg 45 every other week. Before taking it I asked my MPN specialist about it and she said it would be OK as long as it was for a short period of time.

[KLCTJC]

I took IV high dose steroids when I found out I had MS. It made my wbcs go crazy which is normal. Steroids technically can make you bleed some as they can cause bruising, GI bleeds, but if he is taking it orally take with lots of food and avoid NSAIDs and alcohol and that will lower the risk of GI bleeding. But temporary steroids is likely ok. Would express your concerns to the doctor and he has to treat the strep and the reaction. So sometimes you just need to know the risks and take precautions. Talk to your doctor and they will guide you and tell you what is safe.

[Uzza]

hi

I have ET Jak2+ too. I am 69, I have never had a problem with cortisone or antihistamines. But, then again I am not allergic to penicillin.

cheers