What are the common causes of an enlarged spleen. How is an enlarged spleen diagnosed. What are the treatment options for spleen enlargement. When should you see a doctor for spleen-related symptoms. How does a splenectomy affect your health. Who specializes in treating spleen disorders.

Understanding the Spleen: Functions and Importance

The spleen is a fascinating organ that plays crucial roles in our body’s immune and circulatory systems. Located in the upper left part of the abdomen, this fist-sized organ performs several vital functions:

• Filters blood and removes old or damaged red blood cells
• Stores platelets and white blood cells
• Fights infections by producing and storing infection-fighting white blood cells
• Acts as a blood reservoir

Despite its importance, the human body can function without a spleen. However, individuals without a spleen are at higher risk of certain infections and may require special medical considerations.

Enlarged Spleen: Causes and Risk Factors

An enlarged spleen, also known as splenomegaly, can occur due to various underlying conditions. Understanding these causes is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Here are some common factors that can lead to spleen enlargement:

Infections

Viral and bacterial infections are among the most frequent causes of splenomegaly. The spleen, being a central hub for white blood cell production, naturally responds to infections by increasing its activity and size. Some infections associated with an enlarged spleen include:

• Mononucleosis (often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus)
• Syphilis
• Endocarditis
• Malaria and other parasitic infections
• HIV/AIDS
• Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Liver Diseases

Conditions affecting the liver can often impact the spleen due to their close anatomical and functional relationship. Liver diseases that may cause splenomegaly include:

• Cirrhosis
• Hepatitis
• Portal hypertension

Blood Disorders

Various blood-related conditions can lead to an enlarged spleen:

• Anemia (especially hemolytic anemia)
• Sickle cell disease
• Thalassemia
• Polycythemia vera

Cancer

Certain types of cancer, particularly those affecting the blood and lymphatic system, can cause spleen enlargement:

• Leukemia
• Lymphoma
• Multiple myeloma

Metabolic Disorders

Some rare metabolic conditions can result in splenomegaly:

• Gaucher’s disease
• Niemann-Pick disease
• Amyloidosis

Recognizing Symptoms of an Enlarged Spleen

Identifying the symptoms of an enlarged spleen can be challenging, as they often overlap with other conditions. However, being aware of these signs can help you seek timely medical attention. Common symptoms include:

• Pain or discomfort in the upper left abdomen
• A feeling of fullness, even after eating small amounts
• Fatigue and weakness
• Easy bleeding or bruising
• Frequent infections
• Anemia

In some cases, an enlarged spleen may not cause any noticeable symptoms, making regular check-ups with your healthcare provider essential.

Diagnosis of Spleen Enlargement: Methods and Procedures

Accurately diagnosing an enlarged spleen involves a combination of physical examination and diagnostic tests. Here’s an overview of the diagnostic process:

Physical Examination

A healthcare provider may palpate the abdomen to feel for an enlarged spleen. They might also perform percussion tests to assess the size of the organ.

Imaging Studies

Various imaging techniques can provide detailed information about the spleen’s size and condition:

• Ultrasound: A non-invasive method that uses sound waves to create images of the spleen
• CT (Computed Tomography) scan: Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the abdominal organs
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Offers high-resolution images without radiation exposure

Blood Tests

Blood tests can help identify underlying conditions causing spleen enlargement:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Assesses the levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets
• Liver Function Tests: Evaluate liver health and function
• Infectious Disease Screening: Checks for specific infections that may cause splenomegaly

Bone Marrow Biopsy

In some cases, a bone marrow biopsy may be necessary to rule out blood disorders or cancers affecting the spleen.

Treatment Options for an Enlarged Spleen

The treatment of an enlarged spleen primarily focuses on addressing the underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:

Treating Underlying Infections

If an infection is causing spleen enlargement, antibiotics or antiviral medications may be prescribed. For example:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections like endocarditis
• Antiviral medications for viral infections such as mononucleosis
• Antimalarial drugs for parasitic infections

Managing Liver Diseases

Treatment for liver-related causes of splenomegaly may include:

• Lifestyle changes (e.g., reducing alcohol consumption)
• Medications to manage liver disease symptoms
• In severe cases, liver transplantation

Addressing Blood Disorders

Treatment for blood disorders causing spleen enlargement varies depending on the specific condition:

• Blood transfusions for certain types of anemia
• Medications to manage sickle cell disease or thalassemia
• Targeted therapies for blood cancers

Splenectomy: Surgical Removal of the Spleen

In some cases, surgical removal of the spleen (splenectomy) may be necessary. This procedure is typically considered when:

• The spleen is severely enlarged and at risk of rupture
• Other treatments have been ineffective
• The enlarged spleen is causing severe symptoms or complications

It’s important to note that living without a spleen increases the risk of certain infections. Patients who undergo splenectomy often require vaccinations and may need to take prophylactic antibiotics.

Complications of an Enlarged Spleen

An untreated enlarged spleen can lead to several complications:

• Splenic Rupture: A potentially life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention
• Increased Risk of Infections: An enlarged spleen may not function properly, reducing the body’s ability to fight infections
• Anemia: The spleen may destroy too many red blood cells, leading to anemia
• Bleeding Problems: Splenomegaly can cause a decrease in platelet count, leading to easy bruising and bleeding

Living with an Enlarged Spleen: Lifestyle Considerations

If you’ve been diagnosed with an enlarged spleen, certain lifestyle adjustments may be necessary:

• Avoid Contact Sports: To reduce the risk of splenic rupture
• Wear a Protective Abdominal Pad: When participating in activities with a risk of abdominal injury
• Follow a Healthy Diet: To support overall health and manage underlying conditions
• Regular Medical Check-ups: To monitor the spleen’s condition and adjust treatment as needed

Spleen Specialists: Who Treats Spleen Disorders?

Several medical specialists may be involved in the diagnosis and treatment of spleen disorders:

• Hematologists: Specialize in blood disorders and conditions affecting the spleen
• Gastroenterologists: Experts in digestive system disorders, including those affecting the spleen
• Infectious Disease Specialists: May be consulted for spleen enlargement caused by infections
• Oncologists: Involved in cases where spleen enlargement is related to cancer
• General Surgeons: Perform splenectomies when necessary

The choice of specialist often depends on the underlying cause of the spleen enlargement and the patient’s specific symptoms.

Prevention and Early Detection of Spleen Problems

While not all causes of spleen enlargement are preventable, some steps can help maintain spleen health and detect issues early:

• Regular Health Check-ups: Annual physical exams can help detect spleen enlargement before symptoms appear
• Vaccination: Staying up-to-date with vaccinations can prevent infections that may affect the spleen
• Prompt Treatment of Infections: Addressing infections quickly can prevent complications that may lead to spleen enlargement
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption can support overall health, including spleen function

By understanding the importance of the spleen and being aware of potential issues, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain their health and seek timely medical attention when needed.

Common Treatment Options For An Enlarged Spleen

Author: Ahsan Bhatti, MD

Your spleen is an organ that doesn’t draw much attention unless there is a problem with it, however it is a very fascinating organ. Your spleen contains infection-fighting white blood cells, regulates red and white blood cell levels and helps to filter out old and damaged red blood cells. Knowing all this, you’d assume it is an essential organ, but it turns out your body can continue to function just fine without your spleen.

One of the most common problems that develops with your spleen is an issue that causes it to inflame or enlarge. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at some of the causes of an enlarged spleen, and we explain how a gastroenterologist can help treat the condition.

Causes And Symptoms Of An Enlarged Spleen

The most common cause of an enlarged spleen is a viral or bacterial infection. As the epicenter of white blood cell production, it makes sense that the spleen would be affected by the presence of an infection. Common infections that can lead to an enlarged spleen include mononucleosis, syphilis, endocarditis and parasitic infections like malaria. However, infection is not the only cause of an enlarged spleen. The condition can also develop as a result of other diseases, especially conditions that affect the liver, like cirrhosis, or blood disorders like anemia. Certain blood cancers and metabolic disorders can also cause the organ to inflame.

Your symptoms may make it obvious that you’re dealing with a condition that requires treatment, but the fact that your symptoms stem from an enlarged spleen may not be obvious. Because of this, if you’re dealing with any of the following conditions, you should seek out a medical diagnosis:

• Pain or pressure in the upper left abdomen area
• Discomfort that increases when breathing in
• Feeling full without eating or after eating a very small meal
• Frequent tiredness
• Easy bleeding
• Frequent infections

Treating an enlarged spleen is essential to prevent the possibility of a ruptured spleen, which can cause life-threatening complications.

Diagnosing and Treating Spleen Enlargement

If you are dealing with the above symptoms, or you believe you’re dealing with an infection that’s causing problems for your spleen, seek out a gastroenterologist as soon as possible. They’ll start by asking about your symptoms and then move forward with a physical exam that may involve putting light pressure on the skin above the spleen to see if symptoms arise. However, an enlarged spleen is most commonly diagnosed with an imaging test like an MRI or CT scan to visualize the organ or to examine blood flow through the organ. A blood test may also be ordered to determine whether the appropriate number of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets are present in the body.

However, identifying the presence of an enlarged spleen is only half the battle. Your specialist also needs to uncover what’s causing the enlargement so that the root cause can be treated, which in turn allows the spleen to return to normal size. Sometimes this cause can be identified with the CT scan or MRI, but sometimes additional blood or bone marrow tests are required to figure out exactly what’s going on.

Treatment revolves around rectifying the underlying cause, which oftentimes is an infection. Taking antibiotics and medications can help to rid the body of the infection while the doctor simply keeps an eye on the spleen and you monitor symptoms. If the underlying cause is unknown or places you at a high risk for rupture, the doctor may recommend surgery.

Surgery to address an enlarged spleen is called a splenectomy, and it involves the entire removal of the organ. Your body learns how to adapt without the organ, but spleen removal will put you at an increased risk of infection for the remainder of your life, so it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. Many patients who undergo a splenectomy live completely normal lives, although they may take medications to help reduce their infection risk.

So if you are dealing with symptoms that suggest you may be battling an infection and an enlarged spleen, contact Dr. Bhatti and the team at Bhatti GI Consultants today to swiftly and safely help treat the issue.

Spleen enlarged spleen,  spleen

What Kind of Doctors Treat Spleens? | Work

By Chron Contributor Updated July 27, 2020

Hematologists treat and diagnose disorders pertaining to the spleen, which is a part of the lymphatic system, as well as diseases of the blood. Hematologists have achieved many medical advancements that have significantly improved the lives of patients and led to progress in other fields.

Hematology, Oncology and the Spleen

After medical school, an aspiring hematologist chooses a residency program in hematology or hematology combined with oncology. Residency training typically lasts three to five years, depending on the specialty. As explained by New York Cancer and Blood Specialists, oncology is the study of cancer. Because cancer spreads through the blood and lymphatic systems, oncology is closely related to hematology. For example, an individual who sees a hematologist for an enlarged spleen might be referred to an oncologist.

Hematologist Work Environment

Like any physician, a doctor for spleen may work in private practice, in a hospital or medical center or in a research facility. According to the employment website Indeed, hematologists use specialized equipment for testing and treatment. In a hospital environment, hematologists may work long hours and irregular shifts, including nights, weekends and holidays. A doctor for spleen works closely with other medical specialists, including radiologists, pathologists and oncologists.

Spleen Functionality and Causes for Removal

The spleen’s primary role is to act as a filtering system for the blood. The organ allows healthy blood cells to pass through it, and it detains and recycles old or malformed cells. The spleen, working as a part of the lymphatic system, also detects viruses and bacteria and triggers the body’s defense system. The spleen is not essential to the body, and hematologists may need to perform a splenectomy, removing part or all of it, if it has ruptured due to injury or enlarged due to illness.

Diseases Affecting the Spleen and Treatment Protocol

Primary cancer of the spleen is rare. However, the spleen’s role in the blood and lymph circulatory processes causes it to be affected by diseases pertaining to blood, such as leukemia and sickle cell anemia, or diseases that affect the lymphatic system, such as Hodgkin Lymphoma. Lab work and diagnostic imaging help hematologists choose the best course of treatment. Treatment for an enlarged spleen depends on the underlying cause; a hematologist or oncologist can determine whether medication, radiation or surgery is indicated.

Salary and Job Outlook for Hematologists

According to Indeed, the average annual salary for a hematologist is $226,770. As with any job, pay varies according to a number of factors, including employer, geographic location, job responsibilities and the skills and qualifications of the individual.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) tracks data and makes projections for nearly all civilian occupations. The BLS does not provide statistics on medical specialties and sub-specialties but lists the median salary for all physicians and surgeons as $208,000 as of 2019. Median salary means that half in the profession earned more and half earned less. Seven percent job growth is projected for physicians and surgeons through 2028, a rate faster than average compared to all other jobs.

who it is, for what symptoms and diseases you need to make an appointment with a doctor – health articles

A hematologist is a doctor who deals with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the blood and blood-forming organs. This specialist works with children and adults and uses both traditional and modern methods in his practice. It can successfully detect even hidden pathologies that are not manifested by severe symptoms.

Hematologist: what does he treat?

These specialists provide treatment for the following diseases:

• Anemia. This pathology is characterized by a decrease in erythrocyte and hemoglobin values. Anemia is not a separate disease! This is a symptom of mycosis, pyelonephritis, tuberculosis and other dangerous conditions. It is usually accompanied by weakness, general malaise, disturbances in appetite and sleep, shortness of breath even with moderate exertion, and poor concentration
• Lymphatic leukemia. This disease is malignant and is characterized by the multiplication of atypical B-lymphocytes that accumulate in the bone marrow, spleen, liver, and lymph nodes. The predisposition to pathology is inherited, and its main symptoms include an increase in lymph nodes, increased sweating, weakness and sudden weight loss. As lymphocytic leukemia develops, enlargement of the spleen and liver, anemia, dizziness, spontaneous bleeding are detected
• Multiple myeloma. This pathology is malignant and is characterized by the ability of tumor cells to synthesize homogeneous immunoglobulins or their fragments. Tumor originates predominantly in the bone marrow, may be focal, diffuse, and focal diffuse
• Myeloid leukemia. This form of leukemia is characterized by the rapid division of special cells in the bone marrow and their accumulation in the blood. Usually it is diagnosed only during a clinical analysis, since often the pathology does not manifest itself in any way. In some cases, patients complain of a slight increase in body temperature, decreased immunity and general malaise. It is also possible to detect anemia and enlargement of the spleen
• Lymphomas. This pathology is characterized by an increase in lymph nodes. The primary focus of the tumor usually metastasizes and spreads throughout the body. There are several forms of lymphoma that differ in symptoms and degree of malignancy

Specialists are also involved in the treatment of other diseases.

Pediatric hematologist: who is it and what does it treat?

This specialist deals with the treatment and prevention of diseases that occur in both children and adults. Working with patients under 18, he takes into account all the features of their age and development.

These doctors are referred for suspicion of various forms of anemia, thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), hemorrhagic vasculitis (inflammation of microvessels), hemophilia and other congenital hereditary disorders.

Important! If blood diseases are detected at an early age, the patient should be under medical supervision for as long as possible. It is very important not only to detect pathology, but also to control it. Only in this case it is possible to ensure the correct growth and development of the child.

Help of a hematologist during pregnancy

A large number of blood diseases are inherited, for this reason it is very important to visit a doctor when planning a child and in the process of bearing a fetus. The specialist will ensure that the necessary genetic tests are carried out and determine the likelihood of developing abnormalities. It is especially important to contact a hematologist if one or both future parents have pathologies.

In addition, it is very important for a pregnant woman to monitor all blood counts, since the supply of oxygen and other nutrients to the fetus largely depends on them. A doctor’s consultation is required for various deviations from the norm. It is especially important to quickly seek medical help if iron deficiency anemia is suspected. This problem is one of the most common and needs to be corrected and monitored until the very birth.

When to see a hematologist?

A doctor’s consultation is required for the following signs of various disorders:

• Swollen lymph nodes
• Weakness and drowsiness
• Increased body temperature (not due to colds and inflammatory processes)
• Weight loss
• Sleep disorders
• Excessive sweating
• Pale skin
• Decreased appetite
• Appearance of bruises on the body without objective causes
• Dizziness

Help is required for patients who also complain of joint pain, itching, dry skin, tingling and numbness of the fingers. An appointment with a hematologist should be made with a hereditary predisposition to blood diseases and low hemoglobin, identified as part of a general diagnosis. Both therapists and gastroenterologists, neurologists and other doctors can refer to this narrow specialist.

Preparing for a consultation

No special preparation is required for a standard appointment. Some restrictions are imposed only if the patient must first pass tests.

Prior to testing:

• Try to stop drinking and smoking for a few days
• Limit fluid intake (per day)
• Refuse to eat (10-12 hours in advance)
• Avoid the use of drugs. If this is not possible, you should inform the doctor about what drugs are taken, on what schedule and in what dosages. This will allow you to correctly decipher the results of the diagnosis

Blood tests to be taken before the consultation

Before visiting a hematologist, you should take the following tests: This test will reveal the rate of production of red blood cells in the bone marrow

For ferritin. Such a study will allow to determine the content in the blood of a protein that preserves iron in cells

The results of the studies will allow the specialist to quickly diagnose and prescribe the necessary treatment. Other tests will be recommended as needed.

Stages of consultation with a hematologist

Conversation

It is aimed at taking an anamnesis. The patient is asked about the symptoms of the disease that have arisen. The doctor specifies the time of appearance of signs of pathologies, their intensity and other features. Also, the specialist finds out hereditary predisposition to various diseases.

Examination

The doctor evaluates the condition of the skin and mucous membranes. During the examination, such signs of disturbances in the hematopoietic system as pale skin, rashes, hematomas, cyanosis (bluish color) can be detected.

Diagnosis or additional examinations ordered

If a patient goes to a hematologist with the results of blood tests, the diagnosis can be made immediately. If studies have not been conducted, the doctor directs them. In some cases, not only laboratory, but also instrumental examinations are required. The doctor writes out directions for them.

Diagnosis

Blood diseases are characterized by a variety of manifestations that are similar to other pathological conditions. Therefore, a wide range of examination methods is used to identify them. The patient is required to take blood tests.

Also available:

• Urinalysis
• Coagulogram
• Puncture of lymph nodes
• Scintigraphy
• CT and MRI (computed and magnetic resonance imaging)
• Flat bone radiography
• Ultrasound of the abdominal organs and lymph nodes
• Bone marrow puncture, etc.

Comprehensive diagnostics makes it possible to detect even hidden pathologies that have not yet manifested themselves.

Treatment

The scheme and program of therapy are developed depending on the individual characteristics of the patient, the general current condition, the presence of concomitant diseases.

The main areas of treatment include:

• Antibacterial. It is required for patients who suffer from a general decrease in immunity and are more susceptible to various infections than others
• Transfusion. Such therapy consists in the transfusion of blood and its components
• Support. It is aimed at eliminating the symptoms of the disease and improving the general well-being of the patient
• Chemotherapy. It is prescribed for the purpose of disrupting the processes of growth and reproduction, as well as necrosis of malignant cells
• Medical. Such treatment is carried out to compensate for the deficiency of various elements, correct the work of the blood coagulation system and accelerate metabolic processes
• Radiation therapy. It is prescribed in combination with other manipulations to combat oncological pathologies

Doctors can also resort to hormonal treatment, bone marrow transplantation, and surgical interventions.

Important! As a rule, therapy is complex.

Benefits of visiting a hematologist at MEDSI

• Experienced doctors. Our specialists have all the knowledge and skills necessary to treat pathologies, even in advanced cases. If necessary, endocrinologists, gastroenterologists, etc. are involved in the work.
• Comprehensive expert-level diagnostics. We have modern equipment for carrying out any examinations. Studies in the laboratory can be performed in Cito mode (urgent)
• Application of modern methods of treatment of various identified diseases. This increases the chances of patients for a full recovery
• The comfort of visiting a doctor. We have ensured the absence of queues and offer to sign up for a consultation at a convenient time

If you want to consult with a hematologist, just contact us in any convenient way.

Do not delay treatment, see a doctor now:

• Treatment of blood diseases in a hospital
• Hematologist’s appointment
• Chemotherapy

Which doctor treats Splenomegaly in Moscow, make an appointment with a doctor online – Doctor Nearby Clinic

Which doctor treats Splenomegaly in Moscow, make an appointment with a doctor online – Doctor Nearby Clinic

Name

Phone number

I want to join the clinic

Desired date of admission

Doctor’s specialty

Symptoms

• Weakness
• Weight loss
• Elevated temperature
• Intoxication
• loose stool
• Fever
• Spread of pain to other areas
• Pain in the left hypochondrium
• Pale skin
• night sweats
• Gagging
• Soreness of the spleen on palpation

If you experience more than half of these symptoms, we recommend that you seek medical advice immediately.

Are you looking for a doctor who treats splenomegaly? 14 specialists in the field of Gastroenterology are at your service, who receive
in Moscow clinics The doctor is nearby. Choose the right doctor, apply online or call the 24-hour phone.

Showing 8 of 14,
All doctors

Make an appointment with doctors

Fedina Alina Vyacheslavovna

Gastroenterologist, therapist

Reviews

More

Radnaeva Lilia Dashievna

Gastroenterologist

Reviews

More

Shabaeva Linara Rinatovna

Gastroenterologist

Reviews

More

Balovneva Tatiana Vladilenovna

Gastroenterologist, endoscopist

Reviews

More

Grischuk Tatiana Alexandrovna

Gastroenterologist

Reviews

More

Belyaeva Anastasia Mikhailovna

Gastroenterologist

Reviews

More

Shumskaya Yulia Fedorovna

Gastroenterologist, therapist

Reviews

More

Galaeva Elena Viktorovna

General practitioner, general practitioner (family doctor), gastroenterologist

Reviews

More

Clinics in Moscow where this disease is treated

Why us?

Our history begins in 1989!

Nearmedic was founded on the basis of the world’s oldest and most well-known research institution — the N.