The discovery of JAK2617F mutation paved the way for the development of small molecule inhibitors of JAK1/2 resulting in first approved JAK1/2 inhibitor,
ruxolitinib, for the treatment of patients with
myelofibrosis (MF). Although JAK1/2 inhibitor
therapy is effective in decreasing the burden of symptoms associated with
splenomegaly and MF-related constitutional symptoms, it is neither curative nor effective in reducing the risk of leukemic transformation. Presently, allogeneic hematopoietic
cell transplantation (HCT) is the only curative
therapy for MF. A significant risk of regimen-related toxicities, graft failure, and GVHD are major barriers to the success of HCT in MF. Because of significant HCT-associated morbidity and mortality, divergent opinions regarding its appropriate role in this clinical situation have emerged. In this review, the risk-benefit ratios of modern
drug therapy compared with HCT in MF patients are analyzed. A risk-adapted approach individualized to each patient's
biologic characteristics and comorbidities is described, which is currently warranted in determining optimal treatment strategies for patients with MF. Inclusion of JAK1/2 inhibitor
therapy in future transplant conditioning regimens may provide an opportunity to overcome some of these barriers, resulting in greater success with HCT for MF patients.