Essential Thrombocythemia Due to Janus Kinase 2 Mutation Unmasked After Splenectomy

Reactive thrombocytosis after splenectomy is common and often self-limiting. However, thrombocytosis can be multifactorial, especially extreme thrombocytosis (platelet count > 100 x 10⁴/cubic mm). It can lead to thrombotic or hemorrhagic complications. Hence, in patients with rising platelet count after splenectomy, detailed evaluation may be required to rule out other causes of thrombocytosis, such as infection, iron deficiency, and myeloproliferative disorders. Timely treatment of patients with thrombocytosis can prevent the development of life-threatening complications. The index case highlights the importance of regular follow-up of the patients after splenectomy to detect thrombocytosis and suspect other causes if the spleen was diseased or the platelet count fails to resolve spontaneously.