Very interesting interpretation, Ben. My iron studies show deficiency in the past six months, and I am concerned more about the low ferritin level of 38 ng (8-388 ref). I have been unable to tolerate iron supplementation on a daily basis, so onc/heme is allowing a trial of every OTHER day for the past month. Otherwise is considering iron infusion. Hematocrits have remained below 42 for over a year, so no phlebotomies. Labs due in a couple of weeks so will be interesting. Symptom burden stable and not much fatigue Not bad for an 87-year-old, I guess.

Wow, Ben. Your ferritin level is at rock bottom, isn’t it (range 8-388). Mine is 38, and heme/onc is concerned about that being low. I’ve been trying iron supplements for the past month and am going to refuse to take it any further when I see him next week. The side GI side effects would cause me to socially isolate myself forever, and I have even begun to have belly aching as a result. SOMETHING has to give! My TIBC is high at 481 (250-450); iron low at 40 (ref 50-170); iron sat low at 8.3 (15-50); RBC normal range; hgb 12.6; hct 41.4. I have been on only aspirin for my PV for the past year, but platelets remain high at 677 since most of last year. Just a little data for background, because although I am iron-deficient, I don’t like the prospect of possibly going into fullblown anemia before long.

Per some professionals: The body uses iron deficiency as a mechanism to preclude the over-production of RBC. Meaning, those of us with PV that involves the over-production of RBC are 'doomed' to suffer from iron deficiency.

Thanks, Ben. It's something I'll definitely bring up with my doctor the next time we meet. Take care.

Now, that sounds like a pretty good rationale, Ben. I will keep your plan in my arsenal for consideration. Thanks for sharing.