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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffThrombocythemia is an uncommon disorder in which your body produces too many platelets (thrombocytes). It's also known as primary or essential thrombocythemia.
Many people with thrombocythemia have no signs or symptoms. Some develop blood clots abnormally or, more rarely, have bleeding episodes, such as nosebleeds, which usually are mild. Thrombocythemia most often occurs in women older than 50.
You may not need treatment for thrombocythemia if you have no signs or symptoms. However, if you have abnormal blood clotting or bleeding, medications and procedures can help you avoid potentially serious complications.
