Why spleen enlarge obliquely

Only when it enlarges twice its normal size, it can be palpated under the left costal margin on inspiration. Relations of visceral surface. Two peritoneal folds are attached to the hilum of spleen. The close relationship of the tail of pancreas to the hilum of spleen and splenic vessels has to be kept in mind during splenectomy as it may be easily wounded.

Enzymes released from the severed pancreas may digest the surrounding tissues. May occur near the hilum, in the tail of pancreas, omentum , mesentery of small intestine, ovary or testis. While performing splenectomy all accessory spleen should be located and excised, otherwise the symptoms of the disease will persist. Remember symptoms of splenomegaly include early satiety, abdominal discomfort and pain, irritation of diaphragm may cause shoulder tip pain.

Spider angiomata or spider naevus are common on the face and upper chest. They are given that name because they have a central red papule with feeding capillary legs. Occur in presence of extra oestrogen pregnancy or liver disease. Remember FBC and peripheral blood smear are very important in determining cause of the enlarged spleen!

For example, a person with splenomegaly related to cancer may experience:. However, a person who has splenomegaly related to an infection may experience different symptoms altogether.

These may include:. Meanwhile, a person with splenomegaly related to a blood disorder can have symptoms that include:. In most circumstances, a person cannot feel their spleen. However, a doctor may be able to feel an enlarged spleen just under the left side of the ribs. To diagnose splenomegaly, a doctor will start by having the person describe their symptoms.

They will also perform a physical examination to see whether or not they can feel an enlarged spleen. A doctor who suspects splenomegaly will likely order laboratory and imaging tests. Some examples of these tests include :. Because other medical conditions tend to cause splenomegaly, treatment will usually start with addressing the underlying condition. For example, a person with splenomegaly related to sickle cell anemia will require blood transfusions or blood exchange transfusions.

Like the gallbladder or appendix, a person can live without their spleen. However, because the spleen contains so much blood, this type of surgery can be high risk due to excessive bleeding concerns. While undergoing treatment for the underlying condition, a person should be very careful to avoid sustaining abdominal injuries.

Trauma to an enlarged spleen can easily cause the spleen to rupture, which can lead to life threatening bleeding. For example, a person should avoid playing contact sports when they have splenomegaly to reduce their risk of injury.

Splenomegaly can lead to rupture of the spleen. This results in the need for surgery and often blood transfusions to restore blood volumes. If a person has their spleen removed, they have a higher risk of some infection types.