Diagnostic Testing
Because there are different types of MPNs, it is important to get an accurate diagnosis so you can begin the right treatment plan. Our hematopathology team analyzes many MPN cases and has a deep understanding of the different forms of this disease.
A series of tests and procedures may be used to diagnose and understand your MPN. We will review data from prior tests you have had and integrate that into our testing to learn more about your disease and possible treatment options. The diagnostic process may involve:
- Physical exam and medical history
- Complete blood count (CBC) with differential: this is a procedure in which a sample of blood is drawn and checked for the following:
- The number of red blood cells and platelets
- The number and type of white blood cells
- The amount of hemoglobin (the protein that carries oxygen) in the red blood cells
- The portion of the blood sample made up of red blood cells
- Bone marrow biopsy: If needed, this procedure is done in the office or the hospital room. A clinician uses a local anesthetic to numb the posterior iliac crest (back of the hip). A needle is used to obtain a liquid aspirate sample and a small core biopsy sample of the bone marrow. The samples obtained are analyzed by specialized hematopathologists to confirm the diagnosis and conduct various tests to characterize your disease.
- Next-generation sequencing: Our patients have access to a Rapid Heme Panel – a next-generation test to identify mutations or DNA alterations in 95 genes that are frequently mutated in blood cancers. This test was developed at Dana-Farber Brigham and provides results in a matter of days, which helps inform treatment decisions.
These tests provide valuable information about your disease and how likely it is to progress to a more aggressive blood cancer. We use this information to develop an individualized treatment plan and identify potential clinical trials.