Rebound thrombocytosis after alcohol abuse: a possible factor in the pathogenesis of thromboembolic disease

Five alcoholic patients had rebound thrombocytosis after withdrawal of alcohol. This rebound thrombocytosis was not always preceded by thrombocytopenia at admission. Two patients had a history of unexplained recurrent venous thrombosis and recurrent pulmonary embolism. It is suggested that recurrent rebound thrombocytosis after alcohol abuse can be a factor in the pathogenesis of thromboembolic disease in some patients.