Thrombocytosis Health Article

Definition

Thrombocytosis is a blood disorder in which the body produces a surplus of platelets (thrombocytes).

Description

Thrombocytosis is an abnormally increased number of platelets in the blood. Platelets are blood cells that stick together, helping blood to clot. Thrombocytosis is a condition that may have many causes.

Throbocytosis is classified as one of two types. Secondary thrombocytosis can be traced to another cause, such as inflammation, severe bleeding, iron deficiency, or some cancers. Primary thrombocytosis (or essential thrombocythemia) is a single disease entity, with unique clinical characteristics.

Causes and symptoms

The cause of essential thrombocytosis is unknown.

Secondary thrombocytosis may develop as a result of:

• acute hemorrhage or infection
• anemia
• arthritis and other chronic inflammations
• cancer
• exercise
• iron deficiency
• medication
• osteoporosis
• removal of the spleen (splenectomy)
• polycythemia vera (a disorder affecting other red blood cells, as well as platelets)
• stress
• surgery

Symptoms

Two of every three patients who have thrombocytosis do not have any symptoms of the disease at the time of diagnosis. Younger patients may remain symptom-free for years.

Enlargement of the spleen is detected in 60% of patients with thrombocytosis. The liver may also be enlarged. As many as half of all patients experience bleeding from the skin, gums, or nose; and 20–50% have some blockage of veins or arteries.

Other symptoms of thrombocytosis include:

• bloody stools
• bruising
• dizziness
• headache
• hemorrhage
• prolonged bleeding after having surgery or after having a tooth pulled
• redness or tingling of the hands and feet
• weakness. In rare instances, the lymph nodes become enlarged

The highest platelet counts usually produce the most severe symptoms. Younger patients (especially women) may not have symptoms, even though their platelet counts are very high.

Complications

Complications of thrombocytosis include stroke, heart attack, and formation of blood clots in the arms and legs.

A doctor should be notified whenever bleeding is unexplained or prolonged or the patient develops:

• chest or leg pain
• confusion
• numbness
• weakness

Diagnosis

The patient's symptoms suggest the presence of thrombocytosis. Blood tests confirm the diagnosis.

Bone marrow aspiration (removal of a tissue sample for microscopic examination) may also be performed.