Cause 10: Immune System Abnormalities – The Internal Saboteur
Even within our bodies, there could be traitors lurking. Immune system abnormalities, where our own defenses start misfiring, can potentially contribute to the development of Polycythemia Vera (PV). Let’s decode how these internal saboteurs operate.
The immune system, our body’s dedicated defense machinery, is usually a reliable protector against foreign invaders like viruses, bacteria, and harmful substances. However, at times, it can start behaving abnormally due to various factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and exposure to certain environmental triggers.
When the immune system misfires, it may lead to autoimmune diseases, where the body mistakenly attacks its cells. There’s a growing body of research suggesting a link between autoimmunity and an increased risk of developing certain types of blood disorders, including PV.
This connection likely stems from the complex interaction between the immune system and the hematopoietic system, responsible for blood cell production. Some autoimmune conditions can lead to inflammation and changes in the bone marrow microenvironment, which can, in turn, contribute to the development of PV.
Additionally, some research hints at the role of immune dysregulation in the development of clonal hematopoiesis, a condition where a clone of hematopoietic stem cells with specific genetic mutations, such as the JAK2 V617F mutation seen in PV, expands over time. This clonal expansion could potentially lead to conditions like PV.(10)
