Wandering spleen

Wandering Spleen

Wandering spleen (pronounced: wɒndərɪŋ spli:n) is a rare medical condition where the spleen is not located in its usual position in the upper left abdomen, but is found in other parts of the abdomen or pelvis due to a lack of or laxity in the ligaments that normally hold it in place. The term "wandering spleen" is derived from the Latin words "vagabundus" meaning wandering and "splen" meaning spleen.

Causes

The primary cause of a wandering spleen is the laxity or absence of the ligaments that normally hold the spleen in its anatomical position. This can be congenital or acquired due to conditions such as pregnancy, abdominal trauma, or abdominal surgery.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a wandering spleen can vary greatly and may include abdominal pain, a palpable mass in the abdomen, and in severe cases, splenic torsion which can lead to splenic infarction and splenomegaly.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a wandering spleen is often made through imaging studies such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Treatment

Treatment for a wandering spleen typically involves surgery to reposition the spleen and secure it in place, a procedure known as splenopexy. In some cases, if the spleen is damaged or causing severe symptoms, it may need to be removed in a procedure known as a splenectomy.

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Wandering spleen