As part of the lymphatic system, the spleen protects you from infection by producing white blood cells. The organ, which can be found within the left rib cage over the stomach, also helps filter toxins from the blood. Splenomegaly, or enlarged spleen, often signals an underlying health issue or medical condition.
For most people, splenomegaly causes no noticeable symptoms. When an enlarged spleen does cause symptoms, they often include:
Without medical attention, splenomegaly can eventually lead to more serious complications like infections and ruptures, which can be life-threatening.
Numerous medical issues can cause the spleen to become enlarged, such as:
In some cases, splenomegaly may be a temporary condition. In others, the spleen may remain enlarged indefinitely.
A doctor can sometimes detect an enlarged spleen during a physical examination. In this case, they can follow up with other tests, such as diagnostic imaging and blood tests. Some people may also receive a bone marrow biopsy. Exams and tests are essential for finding underlying medical causes for splenomegaly.
Treatments for enlarged spleen vary according to the specific medical conditions linked to the issue. For instance, your doctor may prescribe antibiotic medication if the problem is related to an infection. If a person has cancer or some other serious disease, those conditions must be treated to address any symptoms impacting the spleen. When spleen issues result from autoimmune disorders, doctors will recommend treatments to ease symptoms.
Some people experience splenomegaly without any identifiable underlying cause. In this case, doctors may choose to monitor the condition in lieu of treatment. If the enlarged spleen is causing significant problems, or your medical team is concerned about a possible rupture, they may recommend spleen removal.
What Treatments Are Available?
Treatments for enlarged spleen vary according to the specific medical conditions linked to the issue. For instance, your doctor may prescribe antibiotic medication if the problem is related to an infection. If a person has cancer or some other serious disease, those conditions must be treated to address any symptoms impacting the spleen. When spleen issues result from autoimmune disorders, doctors will recommend treatments to ease symptoms.
Some people experience splenomegaly without any identifiable underlying cause. In this case, doctors may choose to monitor the condition in lieu of treatment. If the enlarged spleen is causing significant problems, or your medical team is concerned about a possible rupture, they may recommend spleen removal.