Dr. Nagalla on the Challenges of Managing Thrombocytopenia in MPNs

Srikanth Nagalla, MD, director, Hematology Oncology Fellowship Program, Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, and associate professor of medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, discusses the challenges of managing thrombocytopenia in patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs).

Patients with MPNs who are receiving chemotherapy may develop concomitant thrombocytopenia due to decreased platelets, says Nagalla. In turn, they are at a higher risk of bleeding.

Additionally, these patients may have decreased renal function. This may limit which agents can safely be used to manage concurrent thrombocytopenia, says Nagalla. Warfarin, while not a preferred anticoagulant for patients with cancer, can be used as an alternative for those with low creatinine clearance, concludes Nagalla.