Splenomegaly consists of enlargement of the spleen that can be caused by various diseases and requires treatment to avoid a possible rupture in order to avoid potentially fatal internal bleeding.
The function of the spleen is regular, producing and storing blood cells and destroying abnormal blood cells, but due to the greater capacity to store blood cells in splenomegaly, the functioning of this organ is affected and the number of circulating blood cells decreases causing anemia, frequent infections and hemorrhagic disorders.
What are the symptoms
Although it may be asymptomatic, splenomegaly may be accompanied by the following symptoms:
- Hiccups;
- Anemia;
- Tiredness;
- Increased frequency of infections;
- Inability to eat a large meal;
- Pain in the upper left side of the abdomen that worsens upon deep breathing.
In the presence of these symptoms and in case the pain is very strong, one should go to the doctor urgently.
Possible causes
Factors that can lead to spleen enlargement are viral infections, such as mononucleosis, bacterial infections such as syphilis or endocarditis, or parasitic infections such as malaria.
In addition, splenomegaly can also be caused by cirrhosis and other diseases affecting the liver, various types of hemolytic anemia, blood cancers such as leukemia or lymphoma, metabolic disorders, portal hypertension or blood clots in the spleen veins.
What are the risks
If left untreated, splenomegaly can lead to complications due to reduced numbers of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the bloodstream that make the body more susceptible to infections, anemia, and bleeding.
In addition, rupture of the spleen may also occur, since when it is enlarged it also becomes more fragile and sensitive.
How is the treatment done?
Splenomegaly has a cure and the ideal treatment of splenomegaly depends on the cause that is at its origin. Thus, in the presence of an infection, treatment includes the use of antibiotics.
In more severe cases, where the enlarged spleen causes serious complications or whose cause can not be identified or treated, it may be necessary to remove the spleen through surgery, since it is possible to live healthy without this organ, however, the risk of developing infections may be increased.
