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.

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.