Abstract
Background: Anemia is a common and progressive clinical manifestation of myelofibrosis that may occur as part of the disease pathogenesis as well as due to the myelosuppressive effects of some treatments, with a substantial impact on quality of life, prognosis, and healthcare resource utilization. Despite these burdens, anemia management has traditionally been a secondary priority to spleen and symptom control, due in part to the limitations of available therapeutic approaches. With the initial regulatory approvals of momelotinib, a Janus kinase 1 (JAK1), JAK2, and activin A receptor type 1 inhibitor that provides anemia-related benefits in addition to addressing splenomegaly and symptoms, re-evaluation of anemia as an early and prominent treatment consideration is warranted. Methods: In this review, we discuss the journey of patients with myelofibrosis and anemia across various severities and clinical scenarios. Results: Summarized are traditional approaches to anemia management and the clinical trial efficacy and safety data that support momelotinib as an option in each setting from mild to severe anemia, including in the context of co-occurring thrombocytopenia. Conclusions: With the availability of momelotinib and other emerging therapies directed at anemia control, early treatment of anemia to avoid progression and support improvement in eligible patients with myelofibrosis should be a primary consideration.