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What Causes an Inflamed Spleen?

A healthy spleen is about the size of a fist, but an inflamed spleen becomes enlarged as a result of the inflammation. An inflamed and enlarged spleen is known as splenomegaly.

  1. Symptoms

    • People with an inflamed spleen are often unaware of the fact that their spleen is inflamed. It is most often discovered during routine physical examinations.

    Viral Infection

    • Viral infections are one cause of inflamed spleens. Mononucleosis is the most common viral infection that results in an inflamed spleen.

    Bacterial Infections

    • Bacterial infections including, but not limited to, syphilis and endocarditis (an infection in lining of the heart) can cause the spleen to become inflamed.

    Parasitic Infections

    • Malaria is an example of a parasitic infection that can result in an inflamed spleen.

    Liver Disease

    • Liver disease including, but not limited to, cirrhosis can cause the spleen to become inflamed.

    Blood Cancers

    • Leukemia, Hodgkin’s disease and other blood cancers can cause inflammation of the spleen.

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