Can you get surgery for spleen swelling in myelofibrosis?
ANSWER
Yes. The doctor might suggest removing your spleen. Risks include infection, bleeding inside your body, or blood clots that could affect your lungs or cause a stroke. Some people may get an enlarged liver after spleen removal or make too many platelets, which could cause blood clots. The drug anagrelide (Agrylin) helps lower platelets after spleen surgery. Side effects include headaches or a rapid heartbeat.
Reviewed by Laura J. Martin on November 3, 2020
SOURCES:
MPN Research Foundation: “What Is Primary Myelofibrosis (MF)?”
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society: “Treatment,” “Myelofibrosis Facts,” “Support Resources.”
Mayo Clinic.org: “Myelofibrosis: Treatments and drugs,” “Myelofibrosis: Coping and support.”
American Cancer Society: “Myelodysplastic Syndromes Overview,” “Find Support Programs and Services in Your Area.”
SOURCES:
MPN Research Foundation: “What Is Primary Myelofibrosis (MF)?”
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society: “Treatment,” “Myelofibrosis Facts,” “Support Resources.”
Mayo Clinic.org: “Myelofibrosis: Treatments and drugs,” “Myelofibrosis: Coping and support.”
American Cancer Society: “Myelodysplastic Syndromes Overview,” “Find Support Programs and Services in Your Area.”
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