MPN Childhood Registry

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are caused by defects in blood cell production. This leads to an overproduction of mature cells, such as red blood cells or platelets. As a result, clinical symptoms and complications can develop. Circulatory disorders and resulting pain symptoms, such as headaches, are the most prominent. Furthermore, blood clotting disorders can occur, leading to vascular occlusions or bleeding. Over a longer period, bone marrow transformation into fibrous tissue or the development of acute leukemia can occur, resulting in even more serious complications. In the vast majority of cases, MPNs are diagnosed in older adults. These diagnoses are extremely rare in children and adolescents. Therefore, clinical and genetic characteristics, treatment options, and outcomes in pediatric patients with MPNs are insufficiently described, and only limited data are available for standardizing diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for MPNs in childhood and adolescence. Recommendations and guidelines from the adult field, which have largely been adopted and applied to children and adolescents, do not adequately address the specific needs of patients in childhood and adolescence. To gain more insights into MPN during this early, vulnerable phase of life, we have established a nationwide registry in Germany that systematically collects data from children and adolescents with MPN. The registry focuses particularly on the scientific analysis of the biological characteristics and differences of MPN in children and adolescents compared to adults.