Possible consequences
The possible consequences depend on the cause of the excessive platelets. Even in a range that is too high, thrombocytes initially do not lead directly to consequences. However, the underlying disease can lead to various consequences.
However, if the platelets are very high, which is not normally the case when thrombocytosis is secondary to an underlying disease, serious consequences are possible. There is a significantly increased risk of thromboses (clots). If such a clot develops in a pulmonary vein, a life-threatening pulmonary embolism may occur.
If the thrombocytes are also unable to function, there is also an increased risk of bleeding. People with essential thrombocythemia are particularly severely affected, as this can lead to greatly increased and non-functional platelets in the course of the disease. By normalizing or reducing the greatly increased platelet count, the risk of thrombosis is also reduced.
Laboratory values
The platelet count can be measured as standard in the laboratory as part of a normal blood collection.From a value of more than 450. 000 thrombocytes/μl the platelet count is increased. A slightly elevated value is usually not a bad thing and does not have serious consequences.
If the number of platelets exceeds 100,000/μl, however, there is an increased risk of thrombosis. In addition to the increased number of thrombocytes, the form of the thrombocytes can also be changed. In essential thrombocythemia, they are often too large and not functional. Furthermore, blood clotting (ability of the blood to clot/clot) can be tested in various laboratory tests.
Can this also be cancer?
The probability that cancer is responsible for an increased platelet count is relatively low – but not 100% excluded. Cancer is a heavy burden on the body, to which the body reacts differently. Many cancer patients have abnormalities in the laboratory values.
An increased thrombocyte count is not uncommon. However, the body also reacts to acute infections, which are much more common, with an increased platelet count. Too many thrombocytes in the blood are therefore by no means a specific sign of cancer. In addition, the various types of cancer usually manifest themselves through other symptoms, which are more specific.
