Post-splenectomy syndrome
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
Also known as: Splenectomy - post-surgery syndrome
- Destruction of red blood cells
- Increased susceptibility to severe infections, especially with organisms such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria meningitidis
- Thrombocytosis (increased platelet count, which can cause blood clots)
Definition
Post-splenectomy syndrome is a group of symptoms and signs that frequently occur after surgical removal of the spleen (splenectomy).
These include:
See also:
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Surgery
Spleen removal
Spleen removal (splenectomy) is surgery to remove a diseased or damaged spleen. This organ is in the upper part of your belly, on the left side underneath the rib cage. The spleen helps your body fight germs and infections. It also helps filter your blood.
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Disease
Blood clots
Blood clots are clumps that occur when blood hardens from a liquid to a solid. A blood clot that forms inside a blood vessel or within the heart and stays there is called a thrombus. A thrombus that breaks loose and travels from one location in the body to another is called an embolus. The ...
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Special Topic
Hemolysis
Hemolysis is the breakdown of red blood cells. See also:
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Test
Platelet count
A platelet count is a test to measure how many platelets you have in your blood. Platelets help the blood clot. They are smaller than red or white blood cells.
- Review date:
- March 2, 2009
- Reviewed by:
- David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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