Description Essential thrombocy...
Description
Essential thrombocythemia is an abnormally high production of cells called megakaryocytes in the bone marrow. The bone marrow is the soft spongy material contained in the center of the bones. These cells are responsible for producing platelets. Platelets are blood products that help the blood clot. In essential thrombocythemia, platelet levels are excessive (greater than 600,000 per microliter) and can lead to clotting problems.
Symptoms
Approximately a quarter of patients have no symptoms. Symptoms, if present, are related to clotting in a blood vessel or bleeding. Neurologic symptoms may include headache, numbness, dizziness, difficulty speaking, weakness or seizures.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A complete history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is often made when a very high platelet count is noted on a CBC blood test. Ultimately, a bone marrow biopsy may be required to confirm the diagnosis.
Tests:
Bone marrow biopsy, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Activated partial thromboplastin (aPTT or PTT), Prothrombin test (PT, INR), Chest X-ray
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology)
Workup:
A complete history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is often made when a very high platelet count is noted on a CBC blood test. Ultimately, a bone marrow biopsy may be required to confirm the diagnosis.
Tests:
Bone marrow biopsy, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Activated partial thromboplastin (aPTT or PTT), Prothrombin test (PT, INR), Chest X-ray
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology)
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of disease. Many patients are treated with low-dose aspirin alone. Others are given drugs that reduce the number of platelet producing cells. These drugs include hydroxyurea, anagrelide, interferon alfa, or phosphorous-32.