How Do I Know If I Have Polycythemia Vera?

Articles On What Is Polycythemia Vera?

Polycythemia vera (PV) is a slow-growing blood cancer in which your body makes too many red blood cells. You may have it for years before you notice any symptoms. Most people find out they have PV because they had a blood test for some other reason.

If your doctor thinks you have PV, you’ll start with a physical exam. Then you may need:

  • Blood tests
  • A bone marrow test
  • A genetic test

You may not get all of these tests, but you’re likely to get some of them. This helps you know for sure that you have PV and not a similar blood disease.

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Your doctor will probably send to you a hematologist -- a doctor who treats blood diseases.

At Your Doctor’s Appointment

You may want to write down any questions you have so you remember them. For example, you could ask:

  • What's the cause of my condition?
  • What tests do I need?
  • When will I find out about my results?
  • How I can learn more about PV?

Blood Tests

Blood tests are common when checking for PV. Even if you’ve already had one, you may need another. Your doctor may order any of these tests:

  • Complete blood count
  • Blood smear
  • Erythropoietin level

Bone Marrow Tests

Bone marrow is the spongy center part of your bones that makes your blood cells. Your doctor may decide you need a bone marrow test. There are two kinds of bone marrow tests:

  • Aspiration uses a liquid bone marrow sample
  • Biopsy uses a solid bone marrow sample

Gene Testing

Most people with PV have a problem in a gene called JAK2. Your doctor can use a blood sample or a bone marrow sample from a biopsy to check your JAK2 gene.

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You can get results in 4-6 days, but your lab may take longer.

Next Steps

If tests show that you have PV, your doctor can help you choose the best treatment for you and closely follow your health in the years to come to make sure you don’t have complications.

Most people with PV can live a normal life. With the right care, you can limit your symptoms and, in some cases, make them go away completely.

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