Dr. Richard T. Silver Discusses the Use of Interferons in MPNs

Richard T. Silver, MD, Professor of Medicine, Director, Leukemia and Myleoproliferative Center, New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medical Center, discusses the use of interferons in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs).

Silver says that the thought to use interferon in MPNs such as essential thrombocythemia stemmed from its activity against hematopoietic cells. In patients with polycythemia vera, interferon has demonstrated long term remission. In patients with essential thrombocythemia, 80-90% response rates have been observed. Silver says that interferon can be used in women who are pregnant, bringing down platelet count, without leukomogenic or teratogenic qualities that would affect the fetus, unlike hydroxyurea.