Splenic atrophy/absence

Last updated: Saturday, 15, January, 2011
Key InformationAppropriate Tests

Often detected on the basis of FBC and blood film examination: red cell morphological changes, thrombocytosis, leucocytosis.

Causes

Post-splenectomy

Congenital absence (asplenia)

Splenic atrophy/infarction

May be persistent splenomegaly, with haematological findings indicative of reduced splenic function.

  • Irradiation
  • Sickle cell anaemia

See Sickle cell disorders.

Consequences

Increased susceptibility to infection, especially

See also Infection (increased susceptibility)
  • Streptococcus pneumoniae
  • Haemophilus influenzae type B

See Haemophilus influenzae infection.

  • Neisseria meningitidis
  • Capnocytophaga carnimorsus
See wound infection