What is the most common complication of a wandering spleen?
4 The most common complication of wandering spleen is torsion,5 which was the complication noted in this case presentation. Other complications are splenic infarction, splenic abscess, variceal hemorrhage, and pancreatic tail necrosis.
Why does it feel like my spleen is moving?
Symptoms and signs This ability to move to other locations is commonly attributed to the spleen’s pedicle being abnormally long. Physical factors may cause ischuria, constipation, as well as numerous spleen-related diseases such as hypersplenism, thrombocytopenia, and lymphoma.
Is a twisted spleen fatal?
Splenic torsion is uncommon but requires immediate attention, as it can be life-threatening. A twisted spleen, or splenic torsion, occurs when the spleen wraps around the blood vessels near it. This condition is most common in large dogs and can be life-threatening, as it cuts off blood flow in the area.
What is an ectopic spleen?
Wandering spleen, also known as ectopic spleen, is an uncommon clinical entity characterized by hypermobility of the spleen due to laxity or absence of the normal ligaments that attach the spleen to the left upper quadrant.
Is a wandering spleen a real thing?
Congenital wandering spleen is a very rare, randomly distributed birth defect characterized by the absence or weakness of one or more of the ligaments that hold the spleen in its normal position in the upper left abdomen. The disorder is not genetic in origin.
Can you live without a spleen?
The spleen is a fist-sized organ in the upper left side of your abdomen, next to your stomach and behind your left ribs. It’s an important part of your immune system, but you can survive without it. This is because the liver can take over many of the spleen’s functions.
What are symptoms of spleen problems?
Symptoms
- Pain or fullness in the left upper belly that can spread to the left shoulder.
- A feeling of fullness without eating or after eating a small amount because the spleen is pressing on your stomach.
- Low red blood cells (anemia)
- Frequent infections.
- Bleeding easily.
How do you know if your spleen is bad?
A blood test, CT scan or MRI scan can confirm the diagnosis. The spleen is not usually removed if it’s just enlarged. Instead, you’ll receive treatment for any underlying condition and your spleen will be monitored. You may be prescribed antibiotics if there’s an infection.
How long do you have after your spleen ruptures?
Generally, recovery from a ruptured spleen can take anywhere from 3 to 12 weeks, depending on the severity and treatment.
Can you drink alcohol if your spleen is removed?
Do not drive or drink alcohol for 24 hours after your surgery.
Can an enlarged spleen cause lower abdominal pain?
An enlarged spleen typically causes no signs or symptoms, but sometimes it causes: Pain or fullness in the left upper belly that can spread to the left shoulder. A feeling of fullness without eating or after eating a small amount because the spleen is pressing on your stomach.
Can a spleen hurt?
A painful spleen Spleen pain is usually felt as a pain behind your left ribs. It may be tender when you touch the area. This can be a sign of a damaged, ruptured or enlarged spleen.
What does wandering spleen mean?
Summary Summary. Wandering spleen is a rare condition that occurs when the spleen lacks one or more of the ligments that hold the spleen in its normal position in the upper left abdomen. If a person is born with this condition it is referred to as congenital wandering spleen.
What is the conservative approach to the treatment of wandering spleen?
The most conservative approach to the treatment of wandering spleen includes watchful waiting while observing splenic function and/or enlargement. Prevention of injury by avoiding contact sports or other activities that might threaten the spleen is also a part of the conservative approach.
Can a plain radiograph show a wandering spleen?
Plain radiograph. A wandering spleen is not frequently diagnosed on plain film radiography, but findings on abdominal x-ray may include 3,6: Ultrasound. Can be used to identify an abnormal anatomical position of the spleen, usually low-lying, or an absence of the spleen in the left upper quadrant 3,5.
What are the symptoms of a twisted splenic artery?
In some cases, the spleen may lack proper blood supply due to the twisting of the splenic arteries. In these cases, symptoms may include abdominal pain, abnormal enlargement of the spleen (splenomegaly), bleeding into the abdomen (infarct), the accumulation of fibrous tissue in the spleen (fibrosis),…