Normal Counts, High Risk: Abdul Mannan Breaks Down JAK2 + Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis
Abdul Mannan, Consultant Haematologist at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, posted on LinkedIn:
”You find JAK2V617F in a patient with splanchnic vein thrombosis. Counts are normal. The marrow doesn’t show MPN. Now what?
Here’s the thing: JAK2 positivity in SVT means clonal, persistent risk. It doesn’t disappear just because the blood count looks normal.
Here’s what the evidence tells us:
• JAK2+ SVT behaves as a chronic prothrombotic state, even without overt MPN on counts or marrow
• Budd-Chiari syndrome should get indefinite anticoagulation from the start (target INR 2-3 with LMWH or VKA )
• Portal or mesenteric vein thrombosis with JAK2 positivity usually needs extended or indefinite anticoagulation, tailored to bleeding risk
• Ruxolitinib (Jakavi) is NOT standard for thrombosis prevention alone – it may help if an overt MPN later declares itself, but it doesn’t replace anticoagulation
• Cytoreduction isn’t indicated when counts are truly normal
Here’s what matters for follow-up: some patients do progress to overt MPN over time. One cohort had 30% declare MPN at a median of 41 months. So you’re looking at periodic CBCs, iron studies if polycythemia concerns you, and keeping step with hepatology for varices and bleeding risk.
The lesson for clinic: don’t withhold anticoagulation waiting for “diagnostic” marrow features, and don’t reach for ruxolitinib to avoid anticoagulation. Both are misses.
What’s your approach when JAK2 shows up in unusual thrombosis?”

Keep up with Hemostasis Today.
-
Jan 27, 2026, 14:06Dmitrii V Kalinin Shares A PhD Opportunity: Hardiman Scholarship
-
Jan 27, 2026, 13:48Filippo Cademartiri: 3 Biomarkers Are Better Than 1: Refining ASCVD Risk in MESA
-
Jan 27, 2026, 12:27Martin Haluzík on Residual Cardiovascular Risk in Coronary Artery Disease
-
Jan 27, 2026, 12:18Stuart Phillips: Strong Bodies Are Good, Informed Bodies Are Better!
-
Jan 27, 2026, 12:07Daniel Torrent: This Should Be An Ice Cold Take… But Veins Aren’t Arteries
-
Jan 27, 2026, 09:17Paolo Zamboni on CCSVI Associated to Multiple Sclerosis
-
Jan 27, 2026, 09:02Rowan Paul: Platelet Dose Determines Success in PRP Therapy
-
Jan 27, 2026, 08:48Uriel Suárez: Hemi‐Orolingual Angioedema in a Patient With VEXAS Syndrome
-
Jan 27, 2026, 08:23Rossella Crescitelli on Platelets’ and PEVs’ Association with Lung Cancer Metastases
