Splenomegaly

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Splenomegaly

Enlarged spleen

Overview

Treatment

Splenomegaly

Alternative Names:

Spleen enlargement; Enlarged spleen

Home Care:

Rupture of the enlarged spleen is particularly possible in infectious mononucleosis and several other causes of splenomegaly. 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.

Call your health care provider if:

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

Other symptoms that you may experience and warrant a call or visit to your doctor depend on the underlying cause of the enlarged spleen. Refer to articles of topics mentioned in the Causes section above for additional information.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

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 percuss (tap) along the left upper quadrant of your abdomen and palpate (feel) in that same area, especially just under the rib cage.

Diagnostic tests may be required, including:

Blood tests such as a CBC
Tests for suspected causes
Abdominal film or CT scan

Review Date: 6/20/2004
Reviewed By: Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Newton-Wellesley Hospital, Boston, Ma.

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