Unmasking Essential Thrombocythemia: Myocardial Infarction as a Rare Complication in a Young Patient

Abstract

Essential thrombocythemia (ET) is a rare myeloproliferative disorder characterized by elevated platelet counts and seldom presents with myocardial infarction (MI), particularly in younger individuals without traditional cardiovascular risk factors. We report the case of a 41-year-old woman with no significant medical history who presented with acute chest pain and elevated troponin levels. Her laboratory results indicated a markedly high platelet count, and coronary angiography revealed thrombotic stenosis in the proximal left anterior descending artery. Diagnosis of ET was confirmed by JAK2-V617F mutation and bone marrow biopsy. The patient was initially treated with hydroxyurea to reduce platelet levels, allowing for successful angioplasty three weeks later. This case highlights the importance of considering ET in the differential diagnosis of MI, especially in younger patients without other risk factors, and underscores the need for tailored management and close monitoring in such rare presentations.