Thrombocytosis, or thrombocythemia, occurs when the platelet count exceeds 450,000/μL of blood. This condition can be classified into primary and secondary thrombocytosis. Secondary thrombocytosis, also known as reactive thrombocytosis, is characterized by an abnormally high platelet count in the absence of chronic myeloproliferative disease due to underlying conditions, infections or diseases, inflammation, hemorrhage, or certain medications. Secondary thrombocytosis, which is more common than primary thrombocytosis, is typically identified through routine laboratory testing, as most patients are asymptomatic. In most cases, reactive thrombocytosis symptoms are due to the underlying disorder rather than the elevated platelet count itself. Rarely, extreme secondary thrombocytosis may lead to thrombotic events such as acute myocardial infarction, mesenteric vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. Although secondary thrombocytosis is generally benign, the underlying causes (such as malignancies, connective tissue disorders, and chronic infections) can increase the risk of adverse outcomes.Diagnosis involves a complete blood count revealing a platelet count above 450,000/μL and additional tests to differentiate it from primary thrombocytosis, including peripheral blood smears, inflammatory markers (such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein), and iron studies. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause, which typically resolves the elevated platelet count. Antiplatelet therapy is generally unnecessary unless the platelet count is extremely high or there is a risk of thrombosis. This activity reviews the etiology, diagnostic strategies, and treatment options for managing secondary thrombocytosis and provides healthcare professionals with the necessary tools and skills to address the complexities of elevated platelet levels associated with underlying medical conditions. This activity also fosters collaboration among multidisciplinary healthcare professionals and aims to improve patient care and outcomes.
- Provider:StatPearls, LLC
- Activity Link: https://www.statpearls.com/ArticleLibrary/viewarticle/30100
- Start Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- End Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- Credit Details: IPCE Credits: 1.0 hours
AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™️: 1.0 hours
Nursing: 1.0 hours
Pharmacy: 1.0 hours - MOC Credit Details: ABS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Accredited CME (ABS)
ABPATH - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning (ABPATH)
ABA - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning (ABA)
ABIM - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Medical Knowledge (ABIM)
ABS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Self-Assessment (ABS)
ABP - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning and Self-Assessment (ABP) - Commercial Support: No
- Activity Type: Enduring Material
- CME Finder Type: Online Learning
- Fee to Participate: Variable
- Measured Outcome: Learner Knowledge, Learner/Team Competence
- Provider Ship: Directly Provided
- Registration: Open to all
- Specialty: Adolescent Medicine, Ambulatory/Outpatient, Complex General Surgical Oncology, Critical Care Medicine, Gastroenterology, General Operative Anesthesia, General Pediatrics, Hematology, Hematology (Blood, BM), Hospital Medicine, Infectious Disease, Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology, Medical Toxicology, Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Pediatric Gastroenterology, Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Pediatric Pulmonology, Pediatric Rheumatology, Pulmonary Disease, Rheumatology