Effects of low-dose thalidomide on CD34+ cells of primary myelofibrosis.

Objective To explore the effects of low dose thalidomide on the peripheral-blood CD34 cells counts of primary myelofibrosis (PMF). Methods 37 patients with PMF received thalidomide at doses of 100 mg per day for 24 weeks, peripheral-blood CD34 + cells counts were determined by flow cytometry and bone marrow biopsy before and after treatment. Results 30 patients (81%) were able to continue treatment beyond 24 weeks. Peripheral-blood CD34 + cell level were significantly higher before treatment and lower both in flow cytometry and bone marrow biopsy after treatment. Conclusion Thalidomide may play a role on the peripheral-blood CD34 + cells of primary myelofibrosis.