What does it mean if you have lesions on your spleen?
In the immunocompromised patient, multiple small splenic lesions usually represent disseminated fungal disease and microabscesses. The spleen is a relatively rare site for metastatic disease; patients with metastatic lesions in the spleen usually have disease in other sites as well.
What causes multiple lesions on the spleen?
The causes of splenomegaly are myriad and include portal hypertension, liver disease, hematologic malignancies, infection, inflammation, and primary splenic disease. Ultrasound or computerized tomography (CT) imaging studies can reveal a solitary splenic lesion.
What is the treatment for lesions on the spleen?
Total splenectomy remains the standard treatment for malignant lesions. For benign lesions, particularly those that are symptomatic and/or at risk of rupture, minimally invasive approaches and techniques for splenic conservation (partial splenectomy) have provided benefit.
What does a CT scan of the spleen show?
A CT scan remains the most useful preoperative investigation to measure splenic volume; to exclude lymph nodes at the splenic hilum; and to detect accessory spleens, splenic abscesses, and perisplenitis.
What are the etiologies of lesions in the spleen?
Lesions in the spleen may be encountered in a variety of clinical settings ranging from asymptomatic patients to patients who are critically ill. Etiologies for multifocal splenic lesions include infectious and inflammatory processes, primary vascular and lymphoid neoplasms, metastatic disease, vasc …
What are the signs and symptoms of spleen disease?
Spleen Disease: Signs and Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore 1 The Spleen and its Role In the Body. 2 Different Spleen Problems. 3 Enlarged or Swollen Spleen. 4 Lacerated or Ruptured Spleen. 5 Spleen Cancer. 6 (more items)
Is enlarged spleen a separate condition?
Enlarged spleen, medically known as splenomegaly, is not considered a separate condition. It is often a result of an underlying disorder, such as chronic infections, anemia or blood cancers.
Why is it important to diagnose a spleen-related problem?
It is important to promptly diagnose a spleen-related problem as changes to this organ often signal that there is an underlying issue that needs looking into. For example, liver infections and some cancers can cause an enlarged spleen. The spleen is located in the upper left part of the abdomen, under the ribcage that protects it.