More tests may be done to diagnose any associated conditions.
A healthcare provider can determine treatment depending on the underlying cause, though it may not always be needed.
Illustration by Theresa Chiechi for Verywell Health
What Is a High Platelet Count?
Illustration by Theresa Chiechi for Verywell Health
Symptoms
Some people don’t experience symptoms with a high platelet count.
When there are symptoms, they can differ with the underlying cause.
These symptoms can include:
People who are pregnant may experience complications.
In severe cases, a stroke or pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung) can occur.
Causes
A high platelet count can have many causes.
Blood Clots
In general, blood clots tend to be linked to primary thrombocytosis.
However, they can also occur with secondary thrombocytosis.
Most commonly, they form in the blood vessels in the arms and legs, or in the brain.
In Pregnancy
During pregnancy, sometimes platelet levels can become too low or too high.
If platelet levels are too high, it may be necessary to takeanti-clotting medicationsuntil the fetus is safely delivered.
Delivering the fetus early may also be recommended.
Cancer
Cancer is linked to both primary and secondary thrombocytosis.
Cancer can cause secondary thrombocytosis, which may be one of the first signs of certain types of cancer.
On rare occasions, primary thrombocytosis can turn into certain types of cancer.
It is considered amyeloproliferative neoplasmthat can progress to leukemia.
It is likely that blood tests or imaging will be done.
These tests may include:
Treatment
Treating a high platelet count starts with finding the underlying cause.
In some cases, if there are no symptoms, no treatment may be required.
Treatment for essential thrombocythemiamay include certain medications that slow down the production of platelets.
Prognosis
Most high platelet counts are sparked by a reactive process such as infection or inflammation.
Once the underlying cause resolves or is managed, platelet counts generally return to normal.
However, having a high platelet count can be associated with cancer.
However, high platelet levels can be associated with more serious conditions, such as cancer.
Treatment for elevated platelet levels will vary depending on the underlying cause.
In some cases, no treatment may be required.
Platelets are elevated (thrombocytosis) for primary and secondary reasons.
Treatment, if necessary, involves treating the underlying condition.
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