A review of essential thrombocythemia and its complications.

Essential thrombocythemia (ET) is a chronic myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by an increased platelet count in the peripheral blood and excessive megakaryopoiesis in the bone marrow. In one-third of cases, the disease remains benign and does not lead to complications. In the remaining cases, however, ET may present with thromboembolic and hemorrhagic complications and transform into more aggressive myeloid neoplasms, with a negative effect on morbidity and mortality. Despite extensive research and a better understanding of the pathogenesis and etiology of the complications associated with ET, limited data are available on the management of complications and emergencies. This article highlights the complications and emergencies associated with ET and discusses treatment options and the controversies associated with management.