Elevated numbers of reticulated platelets in hyperthyroidism: direct evidence for an increase of thrombopoiesis

Br J Haematol. 1998 Jun;101(4):656-8. doi: 10.1046/j.1365-2141.1998.00765.x.

Abstract

We studied thrombopoietic activity in hyperthyroidism by determination of reticulated platelet counts. At the time of hyperthyroidism 14/15 patients had higher reticulated platelets than after achievement of euthyroidism (P<0.001). There was no difference in peripheral platelet counts and mean platelet volumes at the time of hyperthyroidism when compared to euthyroidism. Three patients had pan- and auto-reactive platelet antibodies during hyperthyroidism. These antibodies were directed against GPIIb/IIIa in two patients and against GPIb/IX in one patient. Our findings provide direct evidence that hyperthyroidism is associated with increased platelet production, as reflected by an increase in reticulated platelets.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Antibodies / analysis
  • Blood Platelets / pathology*
  • Female
  • Hematopoiesis*
  • Humans
  • Hyperthyroidism / blood*
  • Hyperthyroidism / pathology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Platelet Count
  • Platelet Glycoprotein GPIIb-IIIa Complex / immunology
  • Platelet Glycoprotein GPIb-IX Complex / immunology
  • Thrombocytosis / etiology*
  • Thrombocytosis / pathology

Substances

  • Antibodies
  • Platelet Glycoprotein GPIIb-IIIa Complex
  • Platelet Glycoprotein GPIb-IX Complex