Essential thrombocythemia (ET) belongs to myeloproliferative syndromes. It has a multifactor etiology. Dark hair dyes, benzene, electromegnetic radiation, infections with RNA viruses and genetic predispositions have been
found to contribute to transformation of thrombocyte precursor cells. The most common complications of clonal thrombocytic proliferation are thrombosis, embolism and hemorrhages. The drugs most frequently used
in treatment of the condition include hydroxyurea, anagrelide, interferon-alpha, melphalan, radioactive phosphorus, busulfan, chlorambucil, aspirin and dipyridamol.

Keywords: myeloproliferative syndrome, essential thrombocythemia, etiology, clinical presentation