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analysis with all tests being two-sided and significance taken for values P < 0AE05.The JAK2 mutation was identified in 48% of our ET population, which is a similar frequency to those reported by others. There was no difference in age at diagnosis, gender or disease duration between those with and those without the mutation. The proportion of patients receiving some form of cytoreductive therapy was also similar in both the groups. However, we found a significantly higher haemoglobin concentration at diagnosis in ET patients with the mutation (median 14AE2 ± 1AE5 g/dl vs. 13 ± 1AE7 g/dl, P ¼ 0AE0426) although no differences were seen in the packed cell volume, white cell or platelet counts. Thrombotic complications were more common in patients with the JAK2 mutation; 18 (62%) vs. 8 (26%), P ¼ 0AE009. Although arterial events were more common, overall there was no statistical difference between the two groups, as defined by JAK2 mutational status, for either the type or timing of the thrombotic event.Our data therefore suggests that the presence of the JAK2 mutation in ET defines a subgroup of patients with both a polycythaemic and thrombotic tendency, confirming the results of recent studies. The ease of screening for the V617F mutation makes it a very attractive tool for diagnostic purposes but its role in risk stratification for therapy remains to be further evaluated.

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