Spontaneous resolution of extreme thrombocytosis in 2 children

Essential thrombocytosis (ET) is rare in children, sometimes difficult to be distinguished from secondary thrombocytosis. This report concerns 2 children with extreme thrombocytosis of 4100 × 10 ⁹/L and 1644 × 10 ⁹/L with partial and complete remission at 3 months and 4 years from diagnosis, with a follow-up of 4 and 17 years, respectively, with no cytoreduction therapy. Diagnosis of ET was suggested according to accepted criteria. However, spontaneous remission of the thrombocytosis argues for the diagnosis of secondary thrombocytosis. These patients highlight the complexity of distinguishing childhood ET from secondary thrombocytosis and the need for cautious personalized decision on cytoreduction therapy.