American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

Which treatment is NOT typically used in managing Polycythemia Vera?

1. Hydroxyurea

2. Low-dose aspirin

3. Aspirin alone for all patients

4. Phlebotomy

The correct answer is: Aspirin alone for all patients

In managing Polycythemia Vera (PV), it is essential to understand that the treatment approach is multi-faceted and tailored to the individual patient’s needs and risk factors. Hydroxyurea is commonly used to reduce the high cell counts associated with PV, thereby helping to decrease the risk of thrombotic events. Low-dose aspirin is often recommended to help reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications, particularly in patients with a history of thrombosis. Phlebotomy plays a critical role in the management of PV, especially in patients with elevated hematocrit levels. The primary goal of phlebotomy is to reduce the hematocrit to a level that minimizes the risk of clotting events and other complications. Aspirin alone for all patients is not typically a standard approach for all patients with PV. While low-dose aspirin is recommended for patients, it is not universally administered as the sole treatment for everyone diagnosed with the condition. Treatment plans often consider the overall risk profile of the patient and typically involve a combination of therapies, rather than relying solely on aspirin. This nuanced approach to treatment reflects the complexity of managing PV and the need for individualized patient care.