Interferon-alpha in the treatment of myeloproliferative diseases

Despite significant progress, the treatment options for myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are still limited. Interferon#945; (IFN#945;) has been recognized as a substance for the treatment of MPN for more than 30 years, but its widespread use has been limited by higher frequency of short-term adverse reactions compared to conventional treatment and until recently, by its off-label indication in BCR/ABL negative MPNs. With the development of pegylated forms of IFN#945; with a more favorable toxicity and pharmacokinetic profile have renewed interest in the use of IFN#945; in the treatment of MPN. Recent studies confirm that IFN#945; is important drug capable of reducing the tumor population in MPN. Thus, IFN#945; is currently a more frequently considered drug in the treatment of MPN and has adop-ted into of some expert recom-mendations as a first-line drug for younger patients with various subtypes of MPN.