Differential Diagnosis for Thrombocytosis Post Resection of Sarcoma

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Reactive thrombocytosis: This is the most common cause of thrombocytosis after surgery, including sarcoma resection. The body's response to tissue injury, inflammation, and healing can lead to increased platelet production.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Iron deficiency anemia: Chronic blood loss or inadequate iron intake can lead to iron deficiency anemia, which is a common cause of reactive thrombocytosis.
• Infection or inflammation: Ongoing infection or inflammation at the surgical site or elsewhere in the body can stimulate platelet production.
• Malignancy-related thrombocytosis: Some sarcomas can produce cytokines that stimulate platelet production, leading to thrombocytosis.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN): Although less common, MPNs such as essential thrombocythemia or polycythemia vera can cause thrombocytosis and may be associated with an increased risk of thrombotic events.
• Paraneoplastic syndrome: Rarely, sarcomas can produce substances that stimulate platelet production, leading to paraneoplastic thrombocytosis.

Rare Diagnoses

• Splenectomy or splenic dysfunction: Although rare, splenectomy or splenic dysfunction can lead to thrombocytosis due to the spleen's role in regulating platelet production and removal.
• Thrombopoietin (TPO) abnormalities: Rare genetic disorders affecting TPO production or function can lead to thrombocytosis.
• Other rare myeloproliferative disorders: Disorders such as chronic myeloid leukemia or primary myelofibrosis can also cause thrombocytosis, although these are rare in the context of sarcoma resection.