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Why Is a Spleen Swollen?

Splenomegaly, commonly referred to as a swollen spleen, can occur for a number of reasons. Liver disease, infections and cancer are the most common causes of splenomegaly. An enlarged spleen is generally the result of an underlying condition.

  1. Causes

    • Cirrhosis of the liver, bacterial or viral infections, and certain cancers such as leukemia and Hodgkin's disease may cause the spleen to become enlarged.

    Symptoms

    • Typical symptoms of an enlarged spleen are asymptomatic (without symptoms). However, when symptoms do arise, they may include, fatigue, abdominal pain on the upper left side, anemia and feelings of fullness.

    Diagnosis

    • Your doctor can usually do a physical exam to determine whether or not your spleen is enlarged. If your physician finds that your spleen feels enlarged, he may order an ultrasound or other imaging test to confirm his suspicions.

    Treatment

    • Treating an enlarged spleen typically starts with determining the underlying cause. Generally, once the underlying cause is treated, the spleen should return to normal size.

    Surgery

    • If after treating the underlying cause your spleen fails to return to normal, surgical removal of the spleen may become necessary.

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