Claire Harrison, MD, DM, FRCP, FRCPath, of Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK, discusses a symposium titled ‘The stories behind the science’ in polycythemia vera (PV). First, the speakers took a look at the molecular knowledge and our understanding of the disease heterogeneity in patients developing the disease. Then, they looked at how experts should be treating patients and what is an unstable or aggressive disease. Further, the symposium looked at the latest data with regards to different treatments including hydroxycarbamide (hydroxyurea), interferon and ruxolitinib along with exploring other therapies. Prof. Harrison finishes off by mentioning personal perspectives from the experts involved. Recorded at the 2016 American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting, held in San Diego, CA.