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In hematology, thrombocythemia is a condition of high platelet (thrombocyte) count in the blood. Normal count is in the range of 150 × 10 9 to 450 × 10 9 platelets per liter of blood, [1] but investigation is typically only considered if the upper limit exceeds 750 × 10 9 /L.
In hematology, essential thrombocythemia (ET) is a rare chronic blood cancer (myeloproliferative neoplasm) characterised by the overproduction of platelets (thrombocytes) by megakaryocytes in the bone marrow. [3] It may, albeit rarely, develop into acute myeloid leukemia or myelofibrosis. [3]
The term thrombocyte (clot cell) came into use in the early 1900s and is sometimes used as a synonym for platelet; but not generally in the scientific literature, except as a root word for other terms related to platelets (e.g. thrombocytopenia meaning low platelets).
Platelet transfusion is the main treatment for people presenting with bleeding symptoms. There have been experiments with DDAVP (1-deamino-8-arginine vasopressin) and splenectomy on people with giant platelet disorders with mixed results, making this type of treatment contentious. [8]
In a typical set of rules, a platelet donor must weigh at least 50 kg (110 lb) and have a platelet count of at least 150 x 10 9 /L (150,000 platelets per mm³). [2] One unit has greater than 3×10 11 platelets. Therefore, it takes 2 liters of blood having a platelet count of 150,000/mm³ to produce one unit of platelets.
Higher platelet transfusion thresholds have been used in premature neonates, but this has been based on limited evidence. [19] There is now evidence that using a high platelet count threshold (50 x 10 9 /L) increases the risk of death or bleeding compared to a lower platelet count threshold (25 x 10 9 /L) in premature neonates. [20]
One common definition of thrombocytopenia requiring emergency treatment is a platelet count below 50,000/μL. [5] Thrombocytopenia can be contrasted with the conditions associated with an abnormally high level of platelets in the blood – thrombocythemia (when the cause is unknown), and thrombocytosis (when the cause is known). [6] [7]
Platelets are regulators of hemostasis and thrombosis. Platelets become active in the blood following vascular injury. Vascular injury causes platelets to stick to the cellular matrix that is exposed under the endothelium, form a platelet plug, and then form a thrombus. Platelets are essential in the formation of an occlusive thrombus and are ...