Spleen pain

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Illu spleen.jpg


Spleen pain refers to discomfort or pain originating from the spleen, an organ located in the upper left part of the abdomen. The spleen plays a crucial role in the immune system and the circulatory system by filtering blood and managing blood cells.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Spleen pain can be caused by various conditions, including:

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The primary symptom of spleen pain is discomfort or pain in the upper left abdomen. This pain may radiate to the left shoulder, a phenomenon known as referred pain. Other symptoms may include:

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosing the cause of spleen pain involves several steps:

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for spleen pain depends on the underlying cause:

  • Medication: Antibiotics for infections, pain relievers, and other medications may be prescribed.
  • Surgery: In severe cases, such as a ruptured spleen, splenectomy (surgical removal of the spleen) may be necessary.

Complications[edit | edit source]

If left untreated, spleen pain can lead to serious complications, including:

  • Splenic rupture: A medical emergency that can cause internal bleeding.
  • Splenomegaly: Chronic enlargement of the spleen, which can affect its function and lead to further complications.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD