Unveiling the Spleen: II

It's another week again. How has the week been for you thus far?
Apologies for posting this late.

So today we'll be looking at the concluding part of our discussion on the spleen.
We'll be focusing on the disorders that can compromise the spleen's normal functioning.

Disorders of the spleen.

1. Splenomegaly:
This refers to the enlargement of the spleen beyond its normal size.
There are factors and disease conditions responsible for this and are as follows;
- Infections such as malaria, mononucleosis.
- Liver diseases such as cirrhosis.
- Sickle cell anemia.
- Cancers such as Leukemia and Lymphomas.
An enlarged spleen is most times palpable on the left side of the abdomen during physical examinations and can also be detected through medical imaging techniques such as CT scans and I.

2. Ruptured Spleen:

This is a condition where the spleen breaks or ruptures on its surface. It is a medical emergency and prompt attention should be sought.
Causes include;
- forceful traumatic blow to the abdomen.
- spleen enlargement due to infection such as mononucleosis.

3. Splenic Cysts:
This is a rare condition in which a fluid filled sac (cyst) maybe formed in the spleen.
In some persons it is symptomless but some may experience pain and swelling at the upper left quadrant. They are mostly discovered during examinations of the abdomen especially when using imaging techniques.

Splenic cyst although not common , is an important condition that needs to be evaluated, diagnosed and treated appropriately to avoid further problems.

Some causes of splenic cyst include;
- congenital, due to developmental defects during intrauterine life.
- could be due to inflammations eg, abscess.
- could be post traumatic like after an accident that affected the spleen.
- could be as a result of cancers.

4. Asplenia:
This is a medical condition where there is absence of normal functioning of the spleen.
Causes;
- could be congenital.
- could be acquired especially after part of the spleen is removed during surgery due to trauma.
- Functional Asplenia also oocurs where the spleen is intact but fails to perform its duties as can be seen in sickle cell anemia.

Asplenia predisposes the body to increased risk of infections, risk of digestive problems such as bowel obstruction and malrotation of the gut and even anemia.

In conclusion, we have seen that the spleen is an important organ though one can survive even if it is removed.
Therefore if you feel some kind of unexplained pain at your upper left quadrant it is advisable to go see your physician for further evaluation.

Credits: Mayoclinic.org
:epainassit.com
: shutterstock.com

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