Aetiology and clinical significance of thrombocytosis: analysis of 732 patients with an elevated platelet count

Assessment of procoagulant potential in patients with reactive thrombocytosis and its association with platelet count

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to determine hemostatic changes and characterize the procoagulant potential among patients with reactive thrombocytosis (RT).

METHODS

Sixty patients with RT (median platelet count 718 × 10⁹ /L) and 20 healthy persons were tested for complete blood count, C-reactive protein, von Willebrand factor (VWF), factor VIII and fibrinogen, and thrombin generation. Platelet studies, including light transmission aggregometry and Cone and Plate(let) Analyzer, were also conducted. Reticulated platelets and platelet P-selectin expression were measured using flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Compared to patients with mild thrombocytosis (platelet count 500-700 × 10⁹ /L; n = 27), those with moderate-to-severe thrombocytosis (platelet count >700 × 10⁹ /L; n = 33) had significantly higher fibrinogen, factor VIII, and VWF antigen and activity levels; higher endogenous thrombin potential, peak thrombin generation and velocity index levels, and shorter time-to-peak thrombin level. VWF antigen and activity, fibrinogen, and factor VIII were positively associated with platelet count, whereas VWF activity/antigen ratio was inversely correlated. In a multivariate analysis of RT and control participants, only platelet count predicted endogenous thrombin potential with a positive-linear correlation. No patients developed acquired von Willebrand syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

As determined by thrombin generation, RT was associated with in vitro prothrombotic tendency, which correlated with platelet count. This may explain the increased thromboembolic risk previously reported in patients with RT.

Comparison of haematology and biochemistry parameters in healthy South African infants with laboratory reference intervals

Objective

Paediatric laboratory reference intervals used in Africa and Asia may be derived from historical intervals of predominantly Caucasian infants in Europe or North America. These intervals may therefore not be compatible with the range of normality for developing country populations. We aimed to compare haematology and biochemistry parameters in healthy South African infants with local laboratory reference intervals.

Methods

We compared the baseline haematology and biochemistry results of 634 (316 male and 318 female) HIV‐unexposed infants, aged 3–6 months, living in a rural area of the Western Cape Province, South Africa, against laboratory reference intervals supplied by the South African National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS). We calculated the percentage of observed values out of bound (in terms of lower and upper limits) compared to laboratory reference intervals.

Results

Of the 634 healthy infants screened, 316 (49.84%) were male and 318 (50.16%) female. A majority (91.05%) had platelet counts above the laboratory reference interval upper limit (350 × 10⁹cells/l), while over half, 54.85% and 56.98% had mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) values below the lower limits of 77.0–105.0 fl and 26.0–34.0 pg, respectively. A small proportion were outside the reference limits for haematocrit, namely 15.71% below and 7.14% above the normal limits of 0.31–0.38 l/l. For male and female infants, 33.65% and 18.04% of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) values and 7.01% and 14.56% of alanine transaminase (ALT) values were above the upper limits, respectively. For male infants, 10.83% of gamma‐glutamyl transferase (GGT) values, and for female infants, 31.11% of GGT values were below the lower limits of 12 U/l for males and 15 U/l for females. We observed no significant deviations (>10% out of bound) from NHLS reference intervals in the remaining haematology and biochemistry parameters measured.

Conclusions

Haematology and biochemistry parameters in apparently healthy South African infants deviate frequently from national laboratory reference intervals, including abnormalities consistent with subclinical hypochromic microcytic anaemia. It is important that clinical laboratory reference intervals for children are derived locally, rather than being adopted from Caucasian norms in developed countries, because clinical trials of vaccines, drugs and diagnostics are increasingly conducted in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Abdominal surgery in patients with essential thrombocythemia: A case report and systematic review of literature

INTRODUCTION

Essential thrombocythemia/thrombocytosis (ET) is characterized by increased bleeding and thrombosis risk during the perioperative period. We report the case of a woman with ET and sigmoid colon cancer, in whom the postoperative course was complicated by anastomotic bleeding. A systematic review was conducted to seek guidance for the management of such patient in the perioperative period.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was conducted using EMBASE, Medline, and PubMed databases to detect relevant English language articles. Published studies with full-text articles were included. Two authors independently searched and extracted the data. Any differences were resolved by consensus. Studies on abdominal surgery were manually retrieved.

RESULTS

Four case reports (including our case report) that described abdominal surgery in patients with ET were included. All patients were females, with a mean age of 47 years. Laparoscopic surgery was performed in 2 patients, and open surgery was performed in the other 2 patients. Two patients had postoperative bleeding that occurred on the first postoperative day. There was one case of pseudohyperkalemia after surgery and one case of Budd-Chiari syndrome caused by hepatic vein thrombosis. No guidelines for patients with ET undergoing abdominal surgery were found.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, there are currently no definitive guidelines for the perioperative management of patients with ET. Furthermore, there are few reports of ET in patients with malignancy undergoing surgery. Further studies in this unique group of patients are required.

Thrombocytosis in 715 Dogs (2011-2015)

BACKGROUND

Thrombocytosis is a hematologic abnormality in dogs that has been associated with various neoplastic, metabolic, and inflammatory conditions.

OBJECTIVE

To classify thrombocytosis in dogs based on severity and evaluate whether there are associations between severity and underlying disease processes.

ANIMALS

Seven hundred and fifteen dogs with thrombocytosis and 1,430 dogs with normal numbers of platelets.

METHODS

Retrospective study. Medical records of dogs with increased (>500 × 10³ /μL; thrombocytosis group) and normal (300-500 × 10³ /μL; control group) platelet counts between 2011 and 2015 were reviewed. Dogs were characterized by severity of platelet increase and diagnosis. Diagnostic categories included neoplasia, endocrine disease, inflammatory disease, or miscellaneous.

RESULTS

A total of 1,254 complete blood counts with thrombocytosis from 715 dogs were included in the study. Median platelet count in this population was 582 × 10³ /μL (500-1,810 × 10³ /μL). No correlation between severity of thrombocytosis and diagnosis was identified. Causes of secondary thrombocytosis included neoplasia (55.7%), endocrine disease (12.0%), and inflammatory disease (46.6%). Immune-mediated disease was common (22.2%), associated with frequent glucocorticoid administration, and had a significantly higher median platelet count (636 × 10³ /μL [500-1,262 × 10³ /μL] versus 565 × 10³ /μL [500-1,810 × 10³ /μL]) when compared to the other inflammatory processes (P < 0.001). The diagnoses in the thrombocytosis dogs differed significantly from the control population (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE

Thrombocytosis is commonly associated with carcinoma and immune-mediated disease in dogs.

Portal Vein Thrombosis After Splenic and Pancreatic Surgery

The portal vein is formed by the confluence of the splenic and superior mesenteric veins, which drain the spleen and small intestine respectively. Occlusion of the portal vein by thrombus typically occurs in patients with cirrhosis and/or prothrombotic disorders. However, portal vein thrombosis (PVT) can also happen after determined surgeries. Moreover, PVT can have serious consequences depending on the location and extent of the thrombosis, including hepatic ischemia, intestinal ischemia, portal hypertension… In this chapter, we will review the incidence, management and prophylaxis of PVT after splenectomy, pancreas transplantation, pancreatic surgery and in the setting of acute and chronic pancreatitis.

Fatal pulmonary embolism following splenectomy in a patient with Evan's syndrome: case report and review of the literature

Background

Evans syndrome (ES) is a rare disease characterized by simultaneous or sequential development of autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) and immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) with or without immune neutropenia. Splenectomy is one of the treatment options for disease refractory to medical therapy. Venous thromboembolism (VTE) following splenectomy for hematological diseases has an incidence of 10%.

Case presentation

Here we describe a case report of a young patient hospitalized with severe hemolytic anemia with Hgb 4.8 g/dl. He developed thrombocytopenia with platelet nadir of 52,000/mm³, thus formally diagnosed with ES. He failed standard medical therapy. He underwent splenectomy and had a fatal outcome. Autopsy confirmed the cause of death as pulmonary embolism (PE).

Conclusions

This case report and review of the literature highlight important aspects of the association between VTE, splenectomy, and hemolytic syndromes including the presence of thrombocytopenia. The burden of the disease is reviewed as well as various pathophysiologic mechanisms contributing to thromboembolic events in these patients and current perioperative prophylactic anticoagulation strategies. Despite an advancing body of literature increasing awareness of VTE following splenectomy, morbidity and mortality remains high. Identifying high risk individuals for thromboembolic complications from splenectomy remains a challenge. There are no consensus guidelines for proper perioperative and post-operative anti-coagulation. We encourage future research to determine which factors might be playing a role in increasing the risk for VTE in real time with hope of forming a consensus to guide management.

Ertapenem-Induced Thrombocytosis

Ertapenem is a β-lactam antibiotic that has a broad spectrum of anti-microbial coverage. Hematological adverse events like thrombocytosis, neutropenia, and neutropenia are infrequent. Here we report a rare case of drug-induced thrombocytosis in a 68-year-old female, who was treated with ertapenem for the diagnosis of complicated abdominal infection. This case emphasizes that any patient with thrombocytosis should be assessed with a careful and detailed history with consideration for possible drug side effects.

Significance of platelet count in children admitted with bronchiolitis

AIM

To determine the true prevalence of thrombocytosis in children less than 2 years of age with bronchiolitis, its association with risk factors, disease severity and thromboembolic complications.

METHODS

A retrospective observational medical chart review of 305 infants aged two years or less hospitalized for bronchiolitis. Clinical outcomes included disease severity, duration of hospital stay, admission to pediatric intensive care unit, or death. They also included complications of thrombocytosis, including thromboembolic complications such as cerebrovascular accident, acute coronary syndrome, deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolus, mesenteric thrombosis and arterial thrombosis and also hemorrhagic complications such as bleeding (spontaneous hemorrhage in the skin, mucous membranes, gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts).

RESULTS

The median age was 4.7 mo and 179 were males (59%). Respiratory syncytial virus was isolated in 268 (84%), adenovirus in 23 (7%) and influenza virus A or B in 13 (4%). Thrombocytosis (platelet count > 500 × 10⁹/L) occurred in 88 (29%; 95%CI: 24%-34%), more commonly in younger infants with the platelet count declining with age. There was no significant association with the duration of illness, temperature on admission, white blood cell count, serum C-reactive protein concentration, length of hospital stay or admission to the intensive care unit. No death, thrombotic or hemorrhagic events occurred.

CONCLUSION

Thrombocytosis is common in children under two years of age admitted with bronchiolitis. It is not associated with disease severity or thromboembolic complications.

Etiology and clinical relevance of elevated platelet count in ICU patients : A retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

Thrombocytosis is a common phenomenon in critically ill patients. Although thrombocytosis is an independent risk factor for complications, it does not seem to influence mortality in intensive care (ICU) patients.

OBJECTIVES

Our investigation aimed to evaluate the etiological and clinical relevance of a platelet count greater than 450 × 10⁹/l in ICU patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients admitted for a minimum of 4 days to an interdisciplinary ICU during a 45-month period were enrolled in this retrospective observational study. Thrombocytopenic patients (platelet count <150 × 10⁹/l in at least one measurement) were excluded. The study patients were divided into two groups: thrombocytosis group (thrombocytes >450 × 10⁹/l in at least one measurement) and control group (thrombocytes = 150 - 450 × 10⁹/l during ICU stay). Univariate and multiple regression analysis were used to determine the influence of severe co-morbidities on the development of thrombocytosis and the association of elevated platelet count with thrombotic embolism, length of stay (LOS) in ICU, and mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 307 patients were analyzed, of whom thrombocytosis was observed in 119 cases. Independent risk factors for the development of thrombocytosis included SIRS, mechanical ventilation, and acute bleeding. Increasing age reduced the risk of thrombocytosis. Thromboembolism occurred in 16 patients (13.4%) with an elevated platelet count and only in nine patients (4.7%) with physiological platelet values (OR: 3.1; 95% CI: 1.3-7.2; p = 0.009). Mean duration of LOS was significantly longer in patients with thrombocytosis (25.2 vs.11.7 days, p < 0.0001). Elevated platelet count showed a negative correlation with ICU mortality (OR: 0.32; 95%-CI: 0.12-0.83; p = 0.019).

CONCLUSION

In our retrospective analysis the occurrence of thrombocytosis in a cohort of interdisciplinary ICU patients was associated with a higher rate of complications and longer LOS in the ICU. Despite these findings, thrombocytosis seems to reduce mortality in critical ill patients.

Hypercoagulability after distal pancreatectomy: Just meaningless alterations?

BACKGROUND

Perioperative and short-term postoperative parameters are similar comparing spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (SPDP) and distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy (DPS). But there are no sound data evaluating the long term risk of postoperative thromboses and infectious complications after splenectomy. The present study evaluated whether the coagulation status differs in patients after SPDP and DPS, and whether that matters clinically.

METHODS

A total of 41 patients after DP (SPDP = 20; DPS = 21) were followed up, focusing on alterations of patient coagulation and immune status. To assess kinetics of the coagulation process, qualitative tests (multiple platelet function analyzer, rotational thrombelastography) were used in addition to global coagulation tests.

RESULTS

Coagulation tests revealed a significant enhanced tendency for blood-platelet aggregation and coagulation activation in patients after DPS compared to patients after SPDP. No septic or thromboembolic events were observed in any patient.

CONCLUSION

Hypercoagulability in splenectomized patients persists over years. Thus, a correlation of this finding with thromboembolic events and mortality years after splenectomy should to be performed in a large cohort.

Impact of preoperative thrombocytosis on prognosis after surgical treatment in pathological T1 and T2 renal cell carcinoma: results of a multi-institutional comprehensive study

Background

The prognostic significance of preoperative thrombocytosis (TC) in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is not without some debate. The aim of the present multi-institutional study was to determine the association of preoperative TC with the clinicopathological features and prognosis of localized RCC patients who underwent surgery in a large cohort.

Methods

A study involving 8 institutions, and 4,376 patients with pT1 and pT2 RCC from the Korean renal cell carcinoma (KORCC) database, was conducted. TC was defined as a platelet count ≥400,000/μL. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the presence of preoperative TC. Clinicopathological variables and survival rates were compared between the 2 groups.

Results

Out of the 4,376 patients in the study, 106 (2.4%) had preoperative TC. Compared to patients without TC, these patients had a lower body mass index. Additionally, these patients had more advanced stage tumors with a higher Fuhrman grade, and higher incidence of symptoms at the time of diagnosis. Kaplan-Meier curves revealed that patients with TC had a significantly lower rate of recurrence-free survival (RFS). Furthermore, a lower rate of overall survival (OS) was exhibited amongst patients with TC. Multivariate analysis revealed that TC was an independent prognostic factor in terms of the RFS and OS.

Conclusions

TC appeared to be an important prognostic determinant in localized RCC. Furthermore, preoperative platelet count may be clinically useful for risk stratification of patients with surgically treated localized RCC.

Dual role of IL-21 in megakaryopoiesis and platelet homeostasis

Gene profiling studies have indicated that in vitro differentiated human megakaryocytes express the receptor for IL-21 (IL-21R), an immunostimulatory cytokine associated with inflammatory disorders and currently under evaluation in cancer therapy. The aim of this study was to investigate whether IL-21 modulates megakaryopoiesis. We first checked the expression of IL-21 receptor on human bone marrow and in vitro differentiated megakaryocytes. We then investigated the effect of IL-21 on the in vitro differentiation of human blood CD34⁺ progenitors into megakaryocytes. Finally, we analyzed the consequences of hydrodynamic transfection-mediated transient expression of IL-21, on megakaryopoiesis and thrombopoiesis in mice. The IL-21Rα chain was expressed in human bone marrow megakaryocytes and was progressively induced during in vitro differentiation of human peripheral CD34⁺ progenitors, while the signal transducing γ chain was down-regulated. Consistently, the STAT3 phosphorylation induced by IL-21 diminished during the later stages of megakaryocytic differentiation. In vitro, IL-21 increased the number of colony-forming unit megakaryocytes generated from CD34⁺ cells and the number of megakaryocytes differentiated from CD34⁺ progenitors in a JAK3- and STAT3-dependent manner. Forced expression of IL-21 in mice increased the density of bi-potent megakaryocyte progenitors and bone marrow megakaryocytes, and the platelet generation, but increased platelet clearance with a consequent reduction in blood cell counts. Our work suggests that IL-21 regulates megakaryocyte development and platelet homeostasis. Thus, IL-21 may link immune responses to physiological or pathological platelet-dependent processes.

Thrombocytosis in splenic trauma: In-hospital course and association with venous thromboembolism

INTRODUCTION

Thrombocytosis is common following elective splenectomy and major trauma. However, little is known about the in-hospital course of platelet count (PC) and incidence of thrombocytosis after splenic trauma. Extreme thrombocytosis (PC>1000×10⁹) is associated with increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in primary thrombocytosis leading to the use of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) for risk reduction, but the need for this agent in splenic trauma is undefined.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of all patients with splenic trauma between April 1, 2010 and March 31, 2014. The in-hospital course of PC was assessed based on splenic injury management type. The association of management type with thrombocytosis was evaluated using a multivariable logistic regression model adjusting for potential confounders. The association of thrombocytosis, extreme thrombocytosis, and ASA use for the outcome of VTE was explored.

RESULTS

156 patients were eligible, PC initially increased in all patients with the highest peak after total splenectomy. The incidence of thrombocytosis was 41.0% (64/156). Thrombocytosis was more likely following splenectomy compared with spleen preserving strategies independent of length of stay, injury grade, ISS, age and transfusion (OR 7.58, 95% CI: 2.26-25.45). Splenectomy was associated with extreme thrombocytosis (OR 10.39, 95% CI: 3.59-30.07).

CONCLUSIONS

Thrombocytosis in splenic trauma is more likely after splenectomy than with spleen preserving strategies. Splenectomy is associated with extreme thrombocytosis. There was insufficient data in our study to determine the use of ASA as primary prevention of VTE after splenic trauma.

Association of nosocomial infections with delayed cerebral ischemia in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

OBJECTIVE

Delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) is a recognized complication of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) that contributes to poor outcome. This study seeks to determine the effect of nosocomial infection on the incidence of DCI and patient outcome.

METHODS

An exploratory analysis was performed on 156 patients with aSAH enrolled in the Cerebral Aneurysm Renin Angiotensin System study. Clinical and radiographic data were analyzed with univariate analysis to detect risk factors for the development of DCI and poor outcome. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of DCI.

RESULTS

One hundred fifty-three patients with aSAH were included. DCI was identified in 32 patients (20.9%). Nosocomial infection (odds ratio [OR] 3.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09–11.2, p = 0.04), ventriculitis (OR 25.3, 95% CI 1.39–458.7, p = 0.03), aneurysm re-rupture (OR 7.55, 95% CI 1.02–55.7, p = 0.05), and clinical vasospasm (OR 43.4, 95% CI 13.1–143.4, p < 0.01) were independently associated with the development of DCI. Diagnosis of nosocomial infection preceded the diagnosis of DCI in 15 (71.4%) of 21 patients. Patients diagnosed with nosocomial infection experienced significantly worse outcomes as measured by the modified Rankin Scale score at discharge and 1 year (p < 0.01 and p = 0.03, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Nosocomial infection is independently associated with DCI. This association is hypothesized to be partly causative through the exacerbation of systemic inflammation leading to thrombosis and subsequent ischemia.

[Iron deficiency, thrombocytosis and thromboembolism]

Iron deficiency, the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide, is often associated with reactive thrombocytosis. Although secondary thrombocytosis is commonly considered to be harmless, there is accumulating evidence that elevated platelet counts, especially in the setting of iron deficiency, can lead to an increased thromboembolic risk in both arterial and venous systems. Here we present the mechanisms of iron deficiency-induced thrombocytosis and summarize its clinical consequences especially in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases, chronic kidney disease or cancer. We hypothesize that iron deficiency is an underestimated thromboembolic risk factor, and that iron replacement therapy can become an effective preventive strategy in a variety of clinical settings.

Overlooked Management and Risk Factors for Anemia in Patients with Intestinal Behçet's Disease in Actual Clinical Practice

Background/Aims

Anemia in patients with inflammatory bowel disease significantly affects the quality of life. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of and risk factors for anemia and to describe the management of anemia in patients with intestinal Behçet’s disease (BD) in actual clinical practice.

Methods

We included 64 patients with intestinal BD who visited the outpatient clinic of a tertiary referral center in June 2011 and had available laboratory data for the subsequent 6 months.

Results

Anemia was detected in 26 patients (40.6%). After 6 months, anemia was still present in 14 of these patients (53.8%). The cause of anemia was investigated in eight patients (30.8%), and oral iron supplementation was prescribed to four patients (15.4%). Of these four patients, two (50%) recovered completely within 6 months. Anemia was associated with a high Disease Activity Index for Intestinal Behçet’s Disease (DAIBD, p=0.024), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (p=0.003), and C-reactive protein (p=0.049) in univariate analysis. In multivariate analysis, the factor predictive for anemia in patients with intestinal BD was a higher DAIBD (≥40; odds ratio, 4.08; 95% confidence interval, 1.21 to 13.71; p=0.023).

Conclusions

Although anemia is common in intestinal BD patients, its clinical importance is overlooked in daily practice. Moderate to severe disease activity is predictive of anemia.

Clinical significance of preoperative thrombocytosis in patients who underwent radical nephrectomy for nonmetastatic renal cell carcinoma

Purpose

The aim of this study was to examine the association of preoperative thrombocytosis with the prognosis of patients with nonmetastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

Materials and Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 187 patients who underwent a radical nephrectomy for nonmetastatic RCC between July 1997 and June 2009. Thrombocytosis was defined as a platelet count≥400,000 µL, and patients were divided into 2 groups according to presence of preoperative thrombocytosis, and the cancer-specific survival rates and overall survival rates of the 2 groups after radical nephrectomy were compared.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 56.0±11.7 years and the mean follow-up period was 59.3±42.1 months; there were 20 patients with preoperative thrombocytosis. Thirty patients developed metastases and 9 patients died during the follow-up period. In Kaplan-Meier analysis using a univariate log-rank test, both cancer-specific survival rate (p=0.013) and overall survival rate (p=0.012) showed significant association with preoperative thrombocytosis. Controlling for pathological TNM stage, Fuhrman grade and tumor diameter, the Cox proportional hazards model for cancer-specific survival rates showed that preoperative thrombocytosis was an independent prognostic factor (p=0.025).

Conclusions

Preoperative thrombocytosis was associated with poorer prognosis in patients with nonmetastatic RCC. Thus, preoperative platelet count may be clinically useful for risk stratification of patients undergoing surgery for nonmetastatic RCC.

Thresholds and timing of pre-operative thrombocytosis and ovarian cancer survival: analysis of laboratory measures from electronic medical records

Background

Thrombocytosis has been associated with poor ovarian cancer prognosis. However, comparisons of thresholds to define thrombocytosis and evaluation of relevant timing of platelet measurement has not been previously conducted.

Methods

We selected Tumor Registry confirmed ovarian, primary peritoneal, and fallopian tube cancer cases diagnosed between 1995–2013 from the Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Laboratory measured platelet values from electronic medical records (EMR) were used to determine thrombocytosis at three thresholds: a platelet count greater than 350, 400, or 450 × 10⁹/liter. Timing was evaluated with 5 intervals: on the date of diagnosis, and up to 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks prior to the date of diagnosis. Cox regression was used to calculate hazard ratios (HR) and confidence intervals (CI) for association with overall survival; adjustment included age, stage, grade, and histologic subtype of disease.

Results

Pre-diagnosis platelet measures were available for 136, 241, 280, 297, and 304 cases in the five intervals. The prevalence of thrombocytosis decreased with increasing thresholds and was generally consistent across the five time intervals, ranging from 44.8–53.2 %, 31.6–39.4 %, and 19.9–26.1 % across the three thresholds. Associations with higher grade and stage of disease gained significance as the threshold increased. With the exception of the lowest threshold on the date of diagnosis (HR₃₅₀: 1.55, 95 % CI: 0.97–2.47), all other survival associations were significant, with the highest reaching twice the risk of death for thrombocytosis on the date of diagnosis (HR₄₀₀: 2.01, 95 % CI: 1.25–3.23).

Conclusions

Our EMR approach yielded associations comparable to published findings from medical record abstraction approaches. In addition, our results indicate that lower thrombocytosis thresholds and platelet measures up to 8 weeks before diagnosis may inform ovarian cancer characteristics and prognosis.

Do we need antiplatelet therapy in thrombocytosis? Contra. Proposal for an individualized risk-adapted treatment

Thrombocytosis is a frequent laboratory finding but not a diagnosis. Therefore, elevated platelet counts (>450 x 10⁹/l) require careful diagnostic work-up to differentiate between reactive thrombocytosis (RT), caused by various conditions, and essential thrombocythemia (ET), a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN). In either setting, aspirin is widely used in clinical practice. However, RT (even at platelet counts >1000 x 10⁹/l) has never been shown to cause thrombosis or bleeding due to acquired von Willebrand factor defects in association with high platelet counts. Identification of reactive conditions and appropriate therapy of the underlying disorder are most relevant. By contrast to RT, ET and related MPN can be associated with thrombosis and/or hemorrhage. Current recommendations suggest the use of low-dose aspirin in all patients with ET unless contraindicated. However, the strength of this recommendation is weak, i. e. evidence level IIb grade B. A potential benefit of aspirin used for primary thromboprophylaxis in ET is mostly derived from the ECLAP study in polycythemia vera (PV). However, translating study results from PV to ET appears to be highly questionable and may be biased. In the absence of robust data regarding the benefit-risk balance of aspirin in ET, it appears reasonable (1) to stratify patients according to their individual thrombotic and bleeding risk, (2) to restrict the use of aspirin to high-risk categories and patients with microcirculatory disturbances, (3) to test for pharmacological efficacy (COX-1 inhibition; measurement of TXB₂), and (4) to modify the aspirin dosing regimen (twice instead of once daily) if required.

Usefulness of the preoperative platelet count in the diagnosis of adnexal tumors

Platelets seem to play a role in the development of ovarian cancer. Platelet count (PLT) is an ubiquitous available parameter. We analyzed retrospectively data of 756 patients with primary adnexal tumors: 584 benign and 172 malignant (148 invasive and 24 borderline) cases. We compared the diagnostic accuracy of CA125, PLT, and a combination of CA125 and PLT. The cutoff values for CA125 and PLT were 35 U/ml and 350/nl, respectively. The median age of patients with benign and malignant tumors was 45 and 64 years, respectively. A total of 77/172 (44.8 %) malignant and 50/584 (8.6 %) benign cases presented with thrombocytosis (PLT ≥350/nl). The median PLT differed between benign and malignant cases (257/nl vs. 330/nl; p < 0.001), similarly as CA125 did (17 vs. 371 U/ml; p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, age, CA125, and thrombocytosis predicted independently the presence of malignancy. The results of CA125 were false positive in 21 % and false negative in 13 %. If considered together, thrombocytosis + CA125 were false positive only in 9 %, whereas the false negative rate was 12 %. The sensitivity and specificity of CA125, thrombocytosis, and thrombocytosis + CA125 for detecting adnexal malignancy were 0.88/0.78, 0.45/0.91, and 0.81/0.94, respectively. The positive predictive value (PPV) of CA125, thrombocytosis, and thrombocytosis + CA125 was 0.79, 0.61, and 0.91, respectively. In conclusion, PLT is an ubiquitously available parameter that could be useful in the diagnostic evaluation of pelvic mass. Considering thrombocytosis additionally to CA125 improves the specificity and PPV and reduces the false positive rate in detecting adnexal malignancy.

Evaluation of various hematological parameters in patients with periodontitis after nonsurgical therapy at different intervals

Background and Objective:

Chronic low-level bacteremia and a systemic inflammatory response have been suggested as a pathogenetic link between periodontal disease and atherosclerosis. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of nonsurgical periodontal therapy on various hematological parameters in patients with periodontitis.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 30 periodontitis patients were selected for the study. Clinical parameters such as plaque index, gingival index, and probing pocket depth were assessed. For each patient, venous blood sample were collected, and the estimation of total leukocyte count (TLC), differential leukocyte count, platelet count, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) was carried out. All the clinical and hematological parameters were measured at baseline, 1 week and 2 weeks after nonsurgical periodontal therapy.

Results:

The study results showed that there was a statistically significant decrease in TLC, ESR, and platelet count at 1 week and 2 weeks following nonsurgical periodontal therapy.

Conclusion:

In this study, it has been concluded that there is a decrease in the hematological parameters after nonsurgical periodontal therapy, which may also reduce the risk of atherosclerosis formation in the blood vessel and possibly prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Association between secondary thrombocytosis and viral respiratory tract infections in children

Secondary thrombocytosis (ST) is frequently observed in children with a variety of clinical conditions. The leading cause of ST is respiratory tract infection (RTI) in children. Nasopharyngeal aspirate samples were collected and assessed for common respiratory viruses. The relationships between virus infections and secondary thrombocytosis were analyzed retrospectively. The blood platelet count and the presence of respiratory viruses were determined for 3156 RTI patients, and 817 (25.9%) cases with platelet ≥500 × 10(9)/L were considered as the thrombocytosis group. Compared with the normal group, the detection rates of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human rhinovirus (HRV) were significantly higher in the thrombocytosis group (P = 0.017 and 0.042, respectively). HRV single infection was a risk factor associated with thrombocytosis [odds ratio (OR) = 1.560, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.108-2.197]. Furthermore, ST was more likely to occur in younger patients who had clinical manifestations of wheezing and dyspnea and who had been diagnosed with bronchiolitis. Furthermore, the course of disease lasted longer in these patients. ST is associated with viral respiratory tract infections, especially RSV and HRV infections. HRV single infection is a risk factor associated with thrombocytosis.

Postoperative thrombocytosis: An unusual case report

Thrombocytosis is often an incidental finding seen in 35–50% of cases and the cause determination creates a diagnostic challenge. Extreme thrombocytosis is rare and seen in 2–5.8% patients only. Among the various causes of increased platelet count, surgical procedures have attracted much attention in both experimental and clinical domain. The appearance of thrombocytosis after surgery needs to be diagnosed to establish the type of thrombocytosis (clonal or reactive), as treatment and prognosis are quite different between them. This case report is vital because of two reasons: First, the increase in platelet count is difficult to rationalize than many of the other thrombocytoses, such as those related to primary augmentation of the function of the bone marrow; second, the association of platelets with the clotting process has led to the belief that their increase after a surgical procedure is connected with the occurrence of postoperative thrombosis. This case presents an interesting finding from a patient who has undergone major abdominal surgery and has shown an unexpected perpetual increase in platelet count.

Rationale for revision and proposed changes of the WHO diagnostic criteria for polycythemia vera, essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis

The 2001/2008 World Health Organization (WHO)-based diagnostic criteria for polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET) and primary myelofibrosis (PMF) were recently revised to accomodate new information on disease-specific mutations and underscore distinguishing morphologic features. In this context, it seems to be reasonable to compare first major diagnostic criteria of the former WHO classifications for myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) and then to focus on details that have been discussed and will be proposed for the upcoming revision of diagnostic guidelines. In PV, a characteristic bone marrow (BM) morphology was added as one of three major diagnostic criteria, which allowed lowering of the hemoglobin/hematocrit threshold for diagnosis, which is another major criterion, to 16.5 g/dl/49% in men and 16 g/dl/48% in women. The presence of a JAK2 mutation remains the third major diagnostic criterion in PV. Subnormal serum erythropoietin level is now the only minor criterion in PV and is used to capture JAK2-unmutated cases. In ET and PMF, mutations that are considered to confirm clonality and specific diagnosis now include CALR, in addition to JAK2 and MPL. Also in the 2015 discussed revision, overtly fibrotic PMF is clearly distinguished from early/prefibrotic PMF and each PMF variant now includes a separate list of diagnostic criteria. The main rationale for these changes was to enhance the distinction between so-called masked PV and JAK2-mutated ET and between ET and prefibrotic early PMF. The proposed changes also underscore the complementary role, as well as limitations of mutation analysis in morphologic diagnosis. On the other hand, discovery of new biological markers may probably be expected in the future to enhance discrimination of the different MPN subtypes in accordance with the histological BM patterns and corresponding clinical features.

Retroperitoneal paraganglioma presenting with pancytopenia: A rare case with rare manifestation

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Retroperitoneal paragangliomas are mostly benign with good prognosis.

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Complete surgical excision is the treatment of choice for extra-adrenal paragangliomas.

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Reactive thrombocytosis is a common cause of thrombocytosis after splenectomy.

Introduction

Paragangliomas are tumors that arise from extraadrenal chromaffin cells and most of them are asymptomatic presenting with painless mass. Retroperitoneal paragangliomas are mostly benign with good prognosis; however, they can present with abdominal pain, palpable mass, or hypertensive episodes. Surgical resection is still the main treatment and necessary for histological assessment.

Case report

A 41 year old female patient presented with 6 months of loss of appetite, weight loss, weakness and breathlessness on exertion.. The patient’s initial blood examination showed marked anemia, reduced leukocyte count with neutropenia and lymphopenia and a marked reduction in the platelet count. The patient was admitted for evaluation of her pancytopenia. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 8 × 7 × 8 cm sized mass closed to the pancreatic tail invading splenic hilum. A large mass was identified retroperitoneally, closed to the tail of pancreas with a splenic hilum invasion. Total mass resection and splenectomy was performed.

Discussion

Complete surgical excision is the treatment of choice for extra-adrenal paragangliomas as well as for recurrent or metastatic neoplasms. Reactive thrombocytosis is a common cause of thrombocytosis. Splenectomy was found to be one of the main causes of extreme reactive thrombocytosis. Reactive thrombocytosis is a predictable finding after splenectomy and management of the thrombocytosis and prevention of complications should be initiated.

Thrombocytosis after hip and knee surgery in the rehabilitation setting: is it an occasional phenomenon? Relationship with deep venous thrombosis and functional outcome

Background

Thrombocytosis can follow surgery and has occasionally been observed after major orthopaedic surgery. The aim of the present study was to ascertain the platelet count (PLTC) change in patients admitted to a rehabilitation unit after major joint surgery and whether deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and poor outcomes occurred in those who had thrombocytosis.

Method

PLTC, red blood cells (RBC), haemoglobin (Hb), fibrinogen, and D-dimers were assessed in patients on admission and at discharge after major joint surgery. Functional outcomes were ascertained using the Barthel Scale (BS), the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and gait evaluation. Thrombocytosis was considered to have occurred when PLTC was greater than or equal to 500 × 100⁹/L. All subjects with thrombocytosis had ultrasonography to assess DVT occurrence. The patients were divided into “young” and “old” groups according to an age cut-off of 75 years to investigate potential age-related differences.

Results

Two hundred and seventy-five patients were identified and 142 (36 M and 106 F, mean age 77.2 ± 10.7) were enrolled. Seventy-six (53.5%) underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA), 40 (51.1%) underwent hip internal fixation and 26 (18.3%) subjects underwent total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The young and old groups included 60 and 82 patients, respectively. Fifty-nine (42.4%) patients had PLTC above 400 × 100⁹/L. Of these, 28 (20.1%) had thrombocytosis with PLTC above 500 × 100⁹/L, and 15 of them (10.7%) had very high values above 600 × 100⁹/L. Increased levels of fibrinogen and D-dimers were also detected. No subject with thrombocytosis had DVT. Outcome was not affected by PLTC. At discharge, significant improvement in all functional assessments was observed in young compared to old people; gait: 2.9 ± 0.2 vs. 2.2 ± 0.8; BS: 97 ± 6.9 vs. 70.5 ± 25.6; and FIM: 116.4 ± 10.9 vs. 83.6 ± 31.2 (p < 0.004), respectively. BS and FIM mean scores were positively correlated with Hb level.

Conclusion

Elevated PLTC and thrombocytosis were not uncommon in patients after major joint surgery, but no subject developed DVT. Platelet count change did not affect the outcome. Higher age and lower haemoglobin level correlated with poorer functional recovery.

Thrombocytosis of Liver Metastasis from Colorectal Cancer as Predictive Factor

There is increasing evidence that thrombocytosis is associated with tumor invasion and metastasis formation. It was shown in several solid tumor types that thrombocytosis prognosticates cancer progression. The aim of this study was to evaluate preoperative thrombocytosis as a potential prognostic biomarker in isolated metastases, in patients with liver metastasis of colorectal cancer (mCRC). Clinicopathological data of 166 patients with mCRC who had surgical resection between 2001 and 2011 were collected retrospectively. All primary tumors have been already resected. The platelet count was evaluated based on the standard preoperative blood profile. The patients were followed-up on average for 28 months. Overall survival (OS) of patients with thrombocytosis was significantly worse both in univariate (HR = 3.00, p = 0.03) and in multivariate analysis (HR = 4.68, p = 0.056) when adjusted for gender, age, tumor size and surgical margin. Thrombocytosis was also a good prognosticator of disease-free survival (DFS) with HR = 2.7, p = 0.018 and nearly significant in multivariate setting (HR = 2.26, p = 0.073). The platelet count is a valuable prognostic marker for the survival in patients with mCRC.

Serum transforming growth factor-β1 and risk of pancreatic cancer in three prospective cohort studies

PURPOSE

Clinically evident chronic pancreatitis is a strong risk factor for pancreatic cancer. A small Japanese cohort study previously reported that pre-diagnostic serum transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) concentration, a potential marker of subclinical pancreatic inflammation, was associated with higher risk of pancreatic cancer. We further explored this association in a larger prospective study.

METHODS

Serum TGF-β1 concentrations were measured in pre-diagnostic samples from 729 pancreatic cancer cases and 907 matched controls from a cohort of Finnish male smokers (the Alpa-Tocopherol, Beta-Carotene (ATBC) Cancer Prevention Study) and two cohorts of US men and women, the Cancer Prevention Study-II and the Prostate Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening Trial. Multivariable-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were estimated using conditional logistic regression.

RESULTS

Overall, serum TGF-β1 concentration was not associated with a clear increase in pancreatic cancer risk (OR 1.36, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.98-1.88 for highest vs. lowest quintile, p trend = 0.20). However, this association differed significantly by follow-up time (p = 0.02). Serum TGF-β1 concentration was not associated with risk during the first 10 years of follow-up, but was associated with higher risk during follow-up after 10 years (OR 2.13, 95 % CI 1.23-3.68 for highest vs. lowest quintile, p trend = 0.001). During follow-up after 10 years, serum TGF-β1 was associated with higher risk only in the ATBC cohort, although most subjects were from ATBC during this time period and statistical evidence for heterogeneity across cohorts was limited (p = 0.14).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that high serum TGF-β1 may be associated with increased risk of pancreatic cancer although a long follow-up period may be needed to observe this association.

The outcome of free tissue transfers in patients with hematological diseases: 20-year experiences in single microsurgical center

BACKGROUND

Free tissue transfers performed in patients with hematological diseases represent significant challenges for micro-surgeons. There are rare literatures that address the outcome in these patients. Therefore, we collected our database, analyzed the outcome, reliability, and related-management of microsurgical technique in the patients with hematological diseases.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of 20 patients with hematological disorders who received free tissue transfers during 20-years period in a single microsurgical center was done. Eleven patients who received head and neck reconstruction were found to have hyperfibrinogenemia. Seven patients with reactive thrombocytosis after trauma, and two patients with leukemia had soft tissue defects in the upper and lower extremities. Twenty-six flaps were used for free tissue transfers. Intra-operatively all patients received intravenous 5,000 Ud of heparin post immediate reperfusion. Anti-coagulant medication such as Dextran-40 or prostaglandin-E1 (PGE1) was given postoperatively.

RESULTS

Twenty-three of the 26 free flaps survived without vascular compromise. Intra-operatively all patients received intravenous 5,000 Ud of heparin post immediate reperfusion, and anti-coagulant medication such as Dextran-40 or prostaglandin-E1 was given to the patients postoperatively. The three failed cases were found in patients with hyperfibrinogenemia and needed further reconstruction with another flap. The overall success rate was 88.5% (23/26).

CONCLUSIONS

Hematologic disorder is not a predicted factor of free flap failure. The key factors for success flap survival in patients with hematologic disorders include preoperative knowledge of the medical condition and monitoring potential post-operative complications, aggressive hematologist consultations, and meticulous non-traumatic surgical anastomosis.

Preoperative platelet count associates with survival and distant metastasis in surgically resected colorectal cancer patients

OBJECTIVE

Platelets have been implicated in cancer metastasis and prognosis. No population-based study has been reported as to whether preoperative platelet count directly predicts metastatic recurrence of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients.

DESIGN

Using a well-characterized cohort of 1,513 surgically resected CRC patients, we assessed the predictive roles of preoperative platelet count in overall survival, overall recurrence, as well as locoregional and distant metastatic recurrences.

RESULTS

Patients with clinically high platelet count (≥400 × 10(9)/L) measured within 1 month before surgery had a significantly unfavorable survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.66, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.34-2.05, P = 2.6 × 10(-6), P(log rank) = 1.1 × 10(-11)) and recurrence (HR = 1.90, 1.24-2.93, P = 0.003, P(log rank) = 0.003). The association of platelet count with recurrence was evident only in patients with metastatic (HR = 2.81, 1.67-4.74, P = 1.1 × 10(-4), P(log rank) = 2.6 × 10(-6)) but not locoregional recurrence (HR = 0.59, 95 % CI 0.21-1.68, P = 0.325, P(log rank) = 0.152). The findings were internally validated through bootstrap resampling (P < 0.01 at 98.6 % of resampling). Consistently, platelet count was significantly higher in deceased than living patients (P < 0.0001) and in patients with metastatic recurrence than locoregional (P = 0.004) or nonrecurrent patients (P < 0.0001). Time-dependent modeling indicated that the increased risks for death and metastasis associated with elevated preoperative platelet counts persisted up to 5 years after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrated that clinically high level of preoperative platelets was an independent predictor of CRC survival and metastasis. As an important component of the routinely tested complete blood count panel, platelet count may be a cost-effective and noninvasive marker for CRC prognosis and a potential intervention target to prevent metastatic recurrence.

Clinicohematological study of thrombocytosis in children

Introduction. Primary thrombocytosis is very rare in children; reactive thrombocytosis is frequently observed in children with infections, anemia, and many other causes. Aims and Objectives. To identify the etiology of thrombocytosis in children and to analyze platelet indices (MPV, PDW, and PCT) in children with thrombocytosis. Study Design. A prospective observational study. Material and Methods. A total of 1000 patients with thrombocytosis (platelet > 400 × 10(9)/L) were studied over a period of 2 years. Platelet distribution width (PDW), mean platelet volume (MPV), and plateletcrit (PCT) were noted. Results. Of 1000 patients, 99.8% had secondary thrombocytosis and only two children had primary thrombocytosis (chronic myeloid leukemia and acute myelogenous leukemia, M7). The majority of the children belonged to the age group of 1month to 2 years (39.7%) and male to female ratio was 1.6 : 1. Infection with anemia (48.3%) was the most common cause of secondary thrombocytosis followed by iron deficiency alone (17.2%) and infection alone (16.2%). Respiratory infection (28.3%) was the predominant infectious cause observed. Thrombocytosis was commonly associated with IDA among all causes of anemia and severity of thrombocytosis increased with severity of anemia (P = 0.021). With increasing platelet count, there was a decrease in MPV (<0.001). Platelet count and mean PDW among children with infection and anemia were significantly higher than those among children with infection alone and anemia alone. None were observed to have thromboembolic manifestations. Conclusions. Primary thrombocytosis is extremely rare in children than secondary thrombocytosis. Infections in association with anemia are most commonly associated with reactive thrombocytosis and severity of thrombocytosis increases with severity of anemia.

Abnormal erythropoiesis and the pathophysiology of chronic anemia

Erythropoiesis, the bone marrow production of erythrocytes by the proliferation and differentiation of hematopoietic cells, replaces the daily loss of 1% of circulating erythrocytes that are senescent. This daily output increases dramatically with hemolysis or hemorrhage. When erythrocyte production rate of erythrocytes is less than the rate of loss, chronic anemia develops. Normal erythropoiesis and specific abnormalities of erythropoiesis that cause chronic anemia are considered during three periods of differentiation: a) multilineage and pre-erythropoietin-dependent hematopoietic progenitors, b) erythropoietin-dependent progenitor cells, and c) terminally differentiating erythroblasts. These erythropoietic abnormalities are discussed in terms of their pathophysiological effects on the bone marrow cells and the resultant changes that can be detected in the peripheral blood using a clinical laboratory test, the complete blood count.

Thrombin generation and procoagulant phospholipids in patients with essential thrombocythemia and reactive thrombocytosis

Thrombocytosis is a commonly encountered clinical scenario and can be either a secondary process (reactive thrombocytosis), or due to clonal disorder (i.e., essential thrombocythemia). This distinction is important as it carries implications for evaluation, prognosis and treatment. In this study we compared procoagulant potential in essential thrombocythemia and reactive thrombocytosis by measuring the thrombin generation and the level of circulating procoagulant phospholipids with functional tests. Twenty nine patients with essential thrombocythemia and 24 with reactive thrombocytosis were studied. Thrombin generation was determined by calibrated automated thrombography. Procoagulant phospholipids were detected by a chronometric standardised method (STA-Procoag-PPL). Patients with reactive thrombocytosis had a longer lag time, higher endogenous thrombin potential, peak of thrombin generation and velocity index than patients with essential thrombocythemia. The level of circulating procoagulant phospholipids was increased in patients with essential thrombocythemia as observed with the procoagulant phospholipids assay. Each parameter was analysed using ROC curves. Highest areas under the curve (AUC) were found for lag time and procoagulant phospholipids ratio (0.817 and 0.853, respectively), associated with high negative predictive value for ET (92.3% and 80%, respectively). In conclusion, patients with essential thrombocythemia and reactive thrombocytosis displayed significant differences in terms of thrombin generation and levels of procoagulant phospholipids. Among these parameters, lag time and procoagulant phospholipids ratio could help to differentiate between reactive thrombocytosis and essential thrombocythemia patients.

Reactive Thrombocytosis Associated with Acute Myocardial Infarction following STEMI with Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

The etiology of thrombocytosis can be classified into reactive and essential forms. The rate of thromboembolic events is higher in essential thrombocytosis, and these events include strokes, transient ischemic attacks, retinal artery or retinal vein occlusions, digital ischemia, and acute coronary syndrome. In a study of 732 medical and surgical patients with thrombocytosis, 88% had reactive thrombocytosis. Patients with reactive thrombocytosis do not require cytoreductive medications or antiplatelet treatment. We report a healthy 40-year-old man without any medical problems who developed a new episode of myocardial infarction associated with thrombocytosis after an episode of myocardial infarction followed by percutaneous coronary intervention. He had thrombocytosis, and his platelet function test did not reveal adequate inhibition. To treat his acute coronary syndrome, therapeutic enoxaparin was added, and clopidrogel was substituted with ticagrelor. We decided to start hydroxyurea to reduce platelets counts. Enoxaparin and hydroxyurea were discontinued when platelet count returned to baseline. JAK-2 and BCR/ABL mutations were negative. This case report highlights a clinical dilemma (reactive thrombocytosis), which is challenging in terms of management and pathophysiology.

Production of Anti-platelet Factor 4/Heparin Complex Antibodies After Cardiovascular Surgery

To study the production of anti-platelet factor 4 (anti-PF4)/heparin complex antibodies of Ig (immunoglobulin) G/IgA/IgM using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA; heparin-induced thrombocytopenia [HIT] antibodies) in 79 patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery, we employed Δoptical density (OD) as a marker of HIT-antibody production. The ΔODs were calculated from the differences in the ODs using ELISA. Patient were classified into 3 ΔOD ranges: ΔOD ≥ 1.0, ΔOD ≥ 0.4 to <1.0, and ΔOD < 0.4. The underlying disease, time course of the postoperative platelet count, d-dimer level, postoperative brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), use of cardiopulmonary bypass and postoperative thrombocytosis were not considered for the 3 ΔOD classifications. None of the 6 patients with ΔOD ≥1.0 and a positive functional assay was diagnosed with HIT due to the absence of HIT-derived thrombocytopenia. In conclusion, HIT-antibody production increased until day 7 after heparin cessation and reached a trace level on day 14. It was demonstrated that HIT-antibody production is in remission unless there is any evidence of a further increase during the second week postsurgery.

A comparative study of internal laser-assisted and conventional liposuction: a look at the influence of drugs and major surgery on laboratory postoperative values

BACKGROUND

Liposuction is a type of aesthetic surgery that has been performed on humans for decades. There is not much literature addressing the subject matter of pre- and post-surgery blood parameters, although this information is rather interesting. Documentation on patients who received laser-assisted liposuction treatment is particularly scarce. Until now, there has been no literature showing values of platelets, lymphocytes, and neutrophils after liposuction.

PURPOSE

The aim of the work is to analyze and interpret values of platelets, lymphocytes and neutrophils in patient blood before and after liposuction, a surgery in which an extraordinarily large amount of potent drugs are used. Moreover, the aim is to compare values changes in patients of conventional and laser-assisted liposuction.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We evaluated standard blood samples in patients prior to and after liposuction. This paper covers the number of platelets, lymphocytes, and neutrophils. A total of 54 patients were examined. Moreover, we compared the change in postoperative values in laser-assisted liposuction patients with the change of values in conventional liposuction patients. A paired two-sided Student's t-test was used for statistical evaluation. P < 0.005 was acknowledged to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

Values of platelets were raised both in conventional and in laser-assisted liposuction patients, but this difference was statistically non-significant and levels of platelets were still normal and within the range of blood levels in healthy patients. Values of neutrophils rose by up to 79.49% ± 7.74% standard deviation (SD) and values of lymphocytes dropped by up to 12.68% ± 5.61% SD. The before/after variances of conventional tumescent local anesthesia liposuction and variations in laser-assisted liposuction were similar for all measured parameters; they also showed no statistically significant differences between before and after surgery. The mean value of total operation time without laser-assistance was 3 hours 42 minutes (± 57 minutes SD, range 2 hours 50 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes). Surgeries with laser-assistance were on average 16 minutes shorter with a mean duration of 3 hours 26 minutes (± 45 minutes SD, range 2 hours 40 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes). The difference was not statistically significant (P < 0.06). The mean value of aspirate volume for liposuctions performed without laser support was 2,618 mL (± 633.7 SD, range 700 mL to 3,500 mL). Mean aspirate volume for liposuctions with laser assistance was increased by up to 61 mL (2,677 mL ± 499.5 SD, range 1,800 mL to 3,500 mL). The difference was not statistically significant (P < 0.71).

CONCLUSION

We conclude that conventional liposuction and laser-assisted liposuction have a similar influence on platelets, lymphocytes, and neutrophils in patients. Moreover, laser-assisted liposuction seems to be less time consuming than conventional liposuction.

Risk factors and clinical characteristics of portal vein thrombosis after splenectomy in patients with liver cirrhosis

BACKGROUND

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a potential lethal complication and may have negative influence on the prognosis after splenectomy in patients with liver cirrhosis. Prevention and timely detection of PVT are quite significant. There is a lack of knowledge about the clinical features and risk factors of PVT. Our study aimed to investigate the risk factors and clinical characteristics of PVT in order to figure out the high-risk individuals.

METHODS

We collected the clinical data of 472 consecutive patients with non-neoplastic liver cirrhosis who had undergone splenectomy from January 2008 to December 2010 in our institution. Clinical and surgical characteristics of patients who developed PVT postoperatively and those who did not develop PVT were compared. Univariate and multivariate analyses of risk factors of PVT were performed. The mortality and rebleeding rate of the patients were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the 472 patients, 52 were excluded from the study. PVT developed in 71 (71/420, 16.9%) patients. Multivariate analysis revealed that wider preoperative portal vein diameter, postoperative thrombocytosis, prolonged prothrombin time and periesophagogastric devascularization were significantly correlated with PVT development [odds ratio (OR): 5.701, 2.807, 1.850 and 2.090, respectively]. The incidence of PVT in patients who took antiplatelet drugs was not lower than that in those who did not. Follow-up showed that patients in the PVT group had a tendency towards reduced overall survival but it was not statistically significant. Gastrointestinal bleeding occurred more often in the PVT group than that in the non-PVT group (P=0.044).

CONCLUSIONS

Wider preoperative portal vein diameter, postoperative thrombocytosis, prolonged prothrombin time and periesophagogastric devascularization are independent risk factors of PVT. PVT is related with higher risk of postoperative gastrointestinal hemorrhage but has no significant impact on the overall survival.

Association between thrombocytosis and iron deficiency anemia in inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND

Thrombocytosis and iron deficiency anemia are frequent complications of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between iron deficiency anemia and thrombocytosis in IBD patients.

METHODS

A total of 198 consecutive IBD patients and 102 healthy controls participated in the study. The parameters investigated were: platelets (PLT), mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width, plateletcrit, hematocrit (HCT) levels, hemoglobulin (Hb) levels, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), red cell distribution width (RDW), ferritin levels, soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) levels, the sTfR-F index (sTfR-F=sTfR/log10 ferritin), and vitamin B12 and folate levels. Thrombocytosis was defined as an absolute number of PLT greater than 400k/μl. Disease activity indices (Crohn's Disease Activity Index for Crohn's disease and Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index for ulcerative colitis) as well as C-reactive protein (CRP) were also correlated with the study parameters.

RESULTS

The IBD patients demonstrated decreased HCT levels, Hb levels, MCV, mean platelet volume, and ferritin levels and an increased absolute PLT count, RDW, platelet distribution width, plateletcrit, sTfR and sTfR-F index (P<0.0001) compared with healthy controls. Twenty-seven patients exhibited thrombocytosis (13.6%). The median value for PLT (interquartile range) was 289 (228-355)k/μl, for Hb levels was 13.4 (12.0-14.7) g/dl, for ferritin levels was 36.6 (19.7-80.7) ng/ml, and for sTfR-F was 0.82 (0.61-1.37) mg/l. The PLT in IBD patients correlated with HCT levels, Hb levels, MCV, RDW, Fe levels, ferritin levels, sTfR, sTfR-F, CRP levels, Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index, and Crohn's Disease Activity Index (Spearman's ρ correlation). In the multivariate analysis, only Hb levels, RDW, CRP levels, ferritin levels, and sTfR-F remained significant (P<0.05). None of the aforementioned was observed in the control group.

CONCLUSION

The absolute PLT count seems to correlate with iron deficiency anemia parameters and disease activity in IBD patients. Controlling the inflammation and managing iron deficiency could lead to reversal of thrombocytosis in IBD patients.

Requirement of TPO/c-mpl for IL-17A-induced granulopoiesis and megakaryopoiesis

IL-17A is a critical, proinflammatory cytokine essential to host defense and is induced in response to microbial invasion. It stimulates granulopoiesis, leading to neutrophilia, neutrophil activation, and mobilization. TPO synergizes with other cytokines in stimulating and expanding hematopoietic progenitors, also leading to granulopoiesis and megakaryopoiesis, and is required for thrombocytopoiesis. We investigated the effects of in vivo expression of IL-17A on granulopoiesis and megakaryopoiesis in TPO receptor c-mpl-/- mice. IL-17A expression expanded megakaryocytes by 2.5-fold in normal mice but had no such effect in c-mpl-/- mice. The megakaryocyte expansion did not result in increased peripheral platelet counts. IL-17A expression did not impact bone marrow precursors in c-mpl-/- mice; however, it expanded splenic precursors, although to a lesser extent compared with normal controls (CFU-HPP). No peripheral neutrophil expansion was observed in c-mpl-/- mice. Moreover, in c-mpl-/- mice, release of IL-17A downstream cytokines was reduced significantly (KC, MIP-2, GM-CSF). The data suggest that IL-17A requires the presence of functional TPO/c-mpl to exert its effects on granulopoiesis and megakaryopoiesis. Furthermore, IL-17A and its downstream cytokines are important regulators and synergistic factors for the physiologic function of TPO/c-mpl on hematopoiesis.