The delayed diagnosis of myeloproliferative neoplasms is common and results in a high incidence of potentially preventable thrombotic complications

Abstract

This article discusses delayed diagnosis of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN). A retrospective chart review was performed to determine the duration of blood count abnormalities prior to diagnosis and the incidence of potentially preventable thrombotic and haemorrhagic complications occurring during this time. A significant delay from the appearance of MPN associated blood count abnormalities until the diagnosis of a MPN was established. During the time from first appearance of a blood count abnormality until diagnosis with a MPN, 25% of patients experience a potentially preventable adverse event. Factors identified in contributing to delays in diagnosis include a lack of familiarity of general practitioners and non haematologist physicians with MPN-associated blood abnormalities, laboratories not adequately emphasising the possibility of a diagnosis of MPN and not making recommendations for confirmation and further testing.