Splenomegaly

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Enlarged spleen

Splenomegaly

Spleen enlargement; Enlarged spleen

Appropriate limitation of activity, including avoiding contact sports, will help prevent trauma that might cause the spleen to rupture.

Care will be required for the specific condition causing the splenomegaly. Follow the instructions given by your health care provider regarding appropriate care.

Although there are usually no symptoms from an enlarged spleen, you may experience pain in the left upper section of your abdomen. You should seek attention from your doctor right away if it is severe or gets worse when you take a deep breath.

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The physician will ask a series of questions to determine if you have symptoms either from the enlarged spleen or the underlying cause of the large spleen, such as fever or signs of an infectious disease.

The doctor will also perform a thorough exam of your abdomen. To check for an enlarged spleen, he or she will tap (percuss) along the left upper portion of your abdomen and feel (palpate) in that same area, especially just under the rib cage.

Diagnostic tests may be required, including:

• Abdominal x-ray, ultrasound, or CT scan
• Blood tests such as a CBC and tests of your liver function
• Tests for suspected causes of splenomegaly

Review Date: 02/09/2010
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).