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Post-splenectomy syndrome

Splenectomy - post-surgery syndrome

 

Post-splenectomy syndrome can occur after surgery to remove the spleen. It consists of a group of symptoms and signs such as:

  • Destruction of red blood cells
  • Increased risk of severe infections, from bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria meningitidis
  • Thrombocytosis (increased platelet count , which can cause blood clots )

Possible Complications

 

Possible long-term medical problems include:

  • Hardening of the arteries ( atherosclerosis )
  • Pulmonary hypertension (a disease affecting the blood vessels in your lungs)

 

 

References

Connell NT, Shurin SB, Schiffman FJ. The spleen and its disorders. In: Hoffman R, Benz EJ Jr, Silberstein LE, Heslop HE, Weitz JI, Anastasi J, eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice . 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2013:chap 162.

 
  • Spleen - illustration

    The spleen is an organ involved in the production and maintenance of red blood cells, the production of certain circulating white blood cells, as a part of the lymph system, and as a part of the immune system

    Spleen

    illustration

    • Spleen - illustration

      The spleen is an organ involved in the production and maintenance of red blood cells, the production of certain circulating white blood cells, as a part of the lymph system, and as a part of the immune system

      Spleen

      illustration

    A Closer Look

     

      Talking to your MD

       

        Self Care

         

          Tests for Post-splenectomy syndrome

           

             

            Review Date: 2/13/2015

            Reviewed By: Rita Nanda, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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