MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Hypersplenism

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Hypersplenism

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Definition	References

Illustrations

Spleen

Definition Return to top

Hypersplenism is a condition in which the spleen is overactive. It can be caused by tumors, anemia, malaria, tuberculosis, and various connective tissue and inflammatory diseases.

Symptoms include an enlarged spleen that is often accompanied by a low level of one or more types of blood cells. The enlarged spleen can cause stomach pain on the left side, as well as a premature feeling of fullness after eating.

References Return to top

Ferri FF. Ferri’s Clinical Advisor 2007: Instant Diagnosis and Treatment. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby; 2007:443.

Hoffman R, Benz Jr. EJ, Shattil SJ, et al., eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 4th ed. Philladelphia, Pa: Churchill Livingston; 2005:711-12.

Update Date: 2/26/2007

Updated by: William Matsui, MD, Assistant Professor of Oncology, Division of Hematologic Malignancies, The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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