# Pulmonary Artery Thromboembolism as a Complication of Essential Thrombocythemia

## TL;DR

A 72-year-old woman with essential thrombocythemia developed a severe lung blood clot, highlighting the need for vigilance in managing thrombotic risks.

## Contribution

This case emphasizes the occurrence of pulmonary embolism in ET patients despite ongoing treatment.

## Key findings

- A patient with ET experienced pulmonary artery thromboembolism despite prior treatment.
- Anticoagulation and cytoreductive therapy led to clinical improvement.
- ET patients require close monitoring for thrombotic events even during treatment.

## Abstract

Essential thrombocythemia (ET) is a chronic myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by elevated platelet counts and an increased risk of thrombotic or hemorrhagic complications. It typically affects older individuals, with a higher prevalence in women, and is frequently associated with Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) mutations. While many cases follow an indolent course, major thrombotic events such as pulmonary embolism may occur. We report the case of a 72-year-old female patient with a known history of ET who presented with an acute onset of dyspnea and pleuritic chest pain. Computed tomography pulmonary angiography confirmed pulmonary artery thromboembolism. Laboratory tests revealed significant thrombocytosis. The patient was treated with anticoagulation and cytoreductive therapy, resulting in clinical improvement. This case highlights the importance of early recognition of thrombotic complications in patients with ET, even when they are receiving ongoing treatment.