What Is an Enlarged Spleen? Causes, Symptoms and Diagnostic Methods

Where Is the Spleen Located?

The spleen is located in the upper left part of the abdomen. Situated just below the stomach and diaphragm, behind the rib cage, this organ is approximately the size of a palm and has a purplish appearance. The spleen plays an important role in filtering the blood, supporting the immune system, and storing certain cells.

What Does the Spleen Do?

The spleen is one of the body's most important organs and performs the following main functions:

• Filters the blood: Removes aging and damaged red blood cells.

• Supports the immune system: Produces white blood cells that fight infections and help eliminate microorganisms.

• Stores blood: Stores blood when needed and can rapidly release it into circulation in cases of blood loss.

• Stores iron: Stores iron released when red blood cells are broken down.

What Causes an Enlarged Spleen?

There are several possible causes of an enlarged spleen:

• Infections: Viral illnesses (such as mononucleosis) and bacterial infections can cause the spleen to enlarge.

• Blood disorders: Blood disorders such as anemia, leukemia, or cancer can lead to spleen enlargement.

• Liver diseases: Cirrhosis and liver failure can interfere with proper blood filtration and lead to spleen enlargement.

• Immune system disorders: Autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatic diseases can cause the spleen to enlarge.

What Are the Symptoms of an Enlarged Spleen?

Although an enlarged spleen may not always cause noticeable symptoms, certain signs may develop as it increases in size:

• Pain beneath the left ribs: As the spleen enlarges, it may press against the rib cage and cause pain.

• Abdominal swelling: An enlarged spleen may cause a feeling of swelling in the upper left abdomen.

• Loss of appetite: An enlarged spleen may press against the stomach and lead to a loss of appetite.

• Fatigue: An enlarged spleen may contribute to the body's fight against infection and cause a feeling of fatigue.

• Fever: Fever may occur, particularly when spleen enlargement is caused by an infection.

How Is an Enlarged Spleen Diagnosed?

Several tests may be performed to accurately diagnose an enlarged spleen:

1. Physical examination: The doctor may assess the size of the spleen by palpating the abdominal area.

2. Blood tests: A complete blood count and biochemical tests can help identify infections or blood disorders.

3. Ultrasonography: Ultrasound is used to assess the size of the spleen.

4. CT or MRI scans: These imaging methods may be used to examine the spleen and surrounding organs in greater detail.

How Is an Enlarged Spleen Treated?

Treatment for an enlarged spleen varies depending on the underlying cause:

• Treatment of infections: If the enlargement is caused by an infection, antibiotic or antiviral treatment may be administered.

• Treatment of blood disorders: When enlargement is associated with a blood disorder, treatment targeting the underlying condition is necessary.

• Treatment of immune system disorders: Treating autoimmune diseases may help control spleen enlargement.

• Surgical intervention: If the spleen is severely enlarged and does not respond to other treatments, a splenectomy (surgical removal of the spleen) may be performed.

How Is an Enlarged Spleen Evaluated in Babies and Children?

In babies and children, spleen enlargement is generally associated with immune system problems or infections. If an enlarged spleen is detected in a baby, a healthcare professional should be consulted. In children, infectious diseases and blood disorders are among the common causes of spleen enlargement.

Can the Spleen Be Removed?

A surgical procedure called splenectomy, which involves removing the spleen, may be performed when spleen enlargement cannot be treated or poses a risk to the body. Following this procedure, the spleen is removed, but the person's immune system may remain weakened for some time. After spleen removal, greater care may be needed to protect against infections.