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The spleen is an oval-shaped organ that is located between the stomach and the diaphragm, on left side of the human body. A number of diseases and conditions can cause an enlarged spleen. One of the most likely causes of an enlarged spleen is an infection, since swelling in the spleen signifies an increase in white blood cells that are trying to attack something threatening. However, in some people — especially those who are slender — a healthy, normal-sized spleen can sometimes be felt during an exam.Your doctor may confirm the diagnosis of an enlarged spleen with one or more of these tests:Imaging tests aren't always needed to diagnose an enlarged spleen.
All rights reserved. You'll receive either general or local anesthesia before the test to ease discomfort.A needle biopsy of the spleen is very rare because of the risk of bleeding.Occasionally, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove your spleen when there's no identifiable cause for the enlargement.
It’s also commonly referred to as enlarged spleen or spleen enlargement.The spleen is a part of your lymphatic system. For example, if you have a bacterial infection, treatment will include antibiotics.If you have an enlarged spleen but don't have any symptoms and the cause can't be found, your doctor may suggest watchful waiting. an enlarged spleen can be caused by infections, cirrhosis and other liver diseases, blood diseases characterized by abnormal blood cells, problems with the lymph system, or other conditions. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. An enlarged spleen presses against neighboring organs. Surgically removing an enlarged spleen isn't usually the first treatment, but is sometimes recommended.See your doctor promptly if you have pain in your left upper abdomen, especially if it's severe or the pain gets worse when you take a deep breath.A number of infections and diseases may cause an enlarged spleen. An enlarged spleen is called splenomegaly, and while it’s not a disease in itself, it’s an indication there’s a problem somewhere in the body. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission.Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic. The causes of spleen enlargement in dogs can be various and warrant investigation by a veterinarian so to identify the underlying cause. Medications for the underlying cause is the first line of treatment. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your health.
© 1998-2020 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Your doctor will likely request imaging and bloo… Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only.
here are That means at least an annual flu shot, and a tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis booster every 10 years. But if your doctor recommends imaging, you generally don't need any special preparation for an ultrasound or MRI.If you're having a CT scan, however, you may need to refrain from eating before the test. Cirrhosis Of The Liver NewLifeOutlook.
If you experience pain in the upper left side of your abdomen that is severe, or if the pain worsens when you breathe, see your doctor as soon as possible.To treat your enlarged spleen, your doctor will have to treat the underlying cause. This could cause your spleen to not be able to filter your blood properly.If your spleen becomes too big, it can start to remove too many red blood cells from your blood. Your doctor generally can't feel a normal-sized spleen in adults but can feel an enlarged spleen.
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Splenomegaly is a condition that occurs when your spleen becomes enlarged.
An enlarged spleen may even outgrow its own blood supply, which can damage or destroy sections of the organ.Anyone can develop an enlarged spleen at any age, but certain groups are at higher risk, including:Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. It helps the immune system by storing white blood cells and helping in the creation of antibodies.This organ is found on the left side of your body, below your rib cage. When your spleen is enlarged, it has a greater risk of rupture. Your spleen:An enlarged spleen affects each of these vital functions.
This usually happens when the spleen becomes enlarged to the point that it presses on the stomach.If your spleen starts to press on other organs, it can start to affect the blood flow to the spleen.