Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs)

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are a group of diseases in which the bone marrow makes too many cells (either red blood cells, white blood cells or platelets). MPNs are a type of blood cancer and used to be called myeloproliferative disorders.

There are four main types of chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms:

Less common types of MPNs include:

  • Chronic eosinophilic leukaemia (CEL)
  • Chronic neutrophilic leukaemia (CNL)

MPNs are chronic diseases that, in most cases, remain stable for many years and progress gradually over time.

Essential thrombocythaemia

Essential thrombocythaemia is a disorder in which too many platelets are produced in the bone marrow. Platelets are normally needed in the body to control bleeding; however, excess numbers of platelets can lead to abnormal blood clotting, which can block the flow of blood in the blood vessels. Essential thrombocythaemia is classified as a myeloproliferative disorder.

Polycythaemia vera

Primary myelofibrosis

Primary myelofibrosis (also called idiopathic myelofibrosis) is a disorder in which normal bone marrow tissue is gradually replaced with a fibrous scar-like material. Overtime, this leads to progressive bone marrow failure. Primary myelofibrosis is classified as a myeloproliferative disorder.

Chronic eosinophilic leukaemia (CEL) / Hypereosinophilic syndrome

Chronic eosinophilic leukaemia (also known as hypereosinophilic syndrome) is a rare myeloproliferative disorder in which too many eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) are made in the bone marrow. These cells spill out of the bone marrow and accumulate in the blood and other tissues around the body.

The Leukaemia Care UK website has some useful information about CEL. Click here to open.