Myelofibrosis is a form of cancer that specifically affects the bone marrow, which plays a crucial role in the production of new blood cells. Considered as a blood cell factory, the bone marrow goes through a phase in myelofibrosis where a particular gene mutation causes an excessive production of blood cells. As a result, abnormal cells in the bone marrow start releasing substances known as cytokines, with one of them being fibroblast growth factor. This growth factor then replaces the tissue responsible for blood cell formation with collagen fibrous tissue, leading to a decrease in the bone marrow’s ability to generate new blood cells. This condition, known as “pancytopenia,” is characterized by a decrease in the overall number of blood cells of all types.
Swelling in the Abdomen: A Common Symptom of Myelofibrosis
One of the common symptoms experienced by individuals with myelofibrosis is swelling in the abdomen. This occurs as a result of abnormal blood cells accumulating in the liver and spleen. Due to the large number of these cells and their rapid growth, the liver and spleen can become enlarged. As a result, individuals with myelofibrosis may notice a swollen feeling in their abdomen, accompanied by a sensation of fullness or heaviness.
Fatigue: A Symptom of Myelofibrosis
In individuals with myelofibrosis, a condition characterized by the replacement of blood cell-forming tissue with collagen fibrous tissue, the ability of the bone marrow to generate new blood cells is diminished. Among the affected cells are red blood cells, which can lead to the development of anemia. Alongside anemia, a decrease in the available number of red blood cells can result in various other symptoms, including fatigue.
Fatigue arises as a consequence of red blood cells being responsible for the transportation of oxygen to all cells within the body. When the quantity of red blood cells decreases, the body’s cells are unable to receive an adequate supply of oxygen necessary for energy production. Consequently, individuals with myelofibrosis often experience persistent feelings of tiredness and exhaustion.