Case-Based Discussion: Management Strategies for Hydroxyurea-Resistant Polycythemia Vera
Panelists discuss how managing advanced polycythemia vera requires tailored approaches beyond hydroxyurea when patients show resistance (persistent hematocrit >45%, elevated white blood cell counts, ongoing symptoms), with experts advocating for either second-line ruxolitinib for rapid symptom and hematologic control or interferons (particularly in younger patients), while emphasizing the importance of addressing modifiable cardiovascular risk factors like smoking cessation.
