Role of the Spleen

The spleen performs several important functions:

1. Filters Blood

Removes damaged or old red blood cells.

2. Fights Infection

Produces white blood cells that help immunity.

3. Stores Blood Cells

Acts as a reservoir for platelets and immune cells.

4. Supports the Immune System

Responds quickly to infections in the body.

Damage to the spleen or its diseases can severely affect the immune system.

Types of Spleen Diseases

1. Splenomegaly (Enlarged Spleen)

A common condition where the spleen becomes larger due to infection, liver disease, or blood disorders.

2. Ruptured Spleen

Often due to trauma or injury. It is a medical emergency.

3. Spleen Infection

Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections may lead to swelling and pain.

4. Spleen Cysts

Fluid-filled sacs inside the spleen; may require surgery if large.

5. Spleen Tumors

Rare but serious; can be benign or cancerous.

6. Hypersplenism

The spleen becomes overactive and destroys blood cells excessively.

7. Blood-Related Spleen Disorders

Conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, or anemia affect spleen function.

Causes of Spleen Diseases

Spleen disease can develop due to:

• Bacterial or viral infections

• Liver diseases like cirrhosis

• Blood cancers

• Autoimmune diseases

• Malaria or typhoid

• Abdominal trauma

• Genetic blood disorders (e.g., thalassemia)

These conditions cause the spleen to enlarge or function abnormally.

Risk Factors

You’re more likely to develop spleen issues if you have:

• Weak immune system

• Chronic infections

• Liver disease

• Alcohol addiction

• Family history of blood disorders

• Frequent abdominal injuries

• Uncontrolled inflammatory diseases

Symptoms of Spleen Disease

Common signs include:

• Pain in the left upper abdomen

• Pain spreading to left shoulder

• Early fullness while eating

• Fatigue or weakness

• Frequent infections

• Easy bruising or bleeding

• Anemia symptoms (pale skin, dizziness)

Many people ignore these symptoms thinking they are minor stomach issues.

Severe Symptoms Requiring Immediate Medical Attention

• Sudden, sharp abdominal pain

• Low blood pressure

• Confusion or dizziness

• Rapid heartbeat

• Internal bleeding symptoms

• Fainting

A ruptured spleen can be life-threatening.

Complications If Spleen Disease Is Left Untreated

• Internal bleeding

• Severe anemia

• Low platelets

• Weak immunity

• Increased infection risk

• Organ failure

• Need for emergency surgery

Diagnosis at Siddhi Vinayak Surgical Hospital

1. Blood Tests

Check for anemia, infection, and platelet levels.

2. Ultrasound

Detects spleen size and structural problems.

3. CT Scan

Provides detailed images for trauma or tumors.

4. MRI

Useful for complex spleen disorders.

5. Bone Marrow Tests

Done if a blood cancer or disorder is suspected.

6. Biopsy

Confirms cysts, tumors, or infection type.

Treatment Options

1. Medications

Used for:

• Infections

• Autoimmune diseases

• Blood disorders

• Pain relief

2. Treating the Underlying Cause

Example:

• Treating hepatitis reduces spleen enlargement

• Managing anemia protects spleen function

3. Blood Transfusions

For severe anemia or low platelets.

4. Endoscopic & Minimally Invasive Procedures

Used for certain bleeding disorders.

5. Surgery (Splenectomy)

Recommended for:

• Ruptured spleen

• Large cysts

• Tumors

• Hypersplenism

• Severe splenomegaly

Laparoscopic splenectomy is preferred due to minimal pain and faster recovery.

 Prevention Tips

• Use seatbelts to avoid abdominal injury

• Avoid alcohol-related liver damage

• Maintain good immunity

• Treat infections early

• Manage chronic diseases like hepatitis