Hypersplenism
Key points
- Hypersplenism is increased activity of the spleen caused by tumors, anemia, malaria, tuberculosis, and various connective tissue and inflammatory diseases.
- An enlarged spleen is often accompanied by a lack of one or more types of blood cells.
- The enlarged spleen can cause stomach pain on the left side, as well as feeling full prematurely after eating.
Definition
Hypersplenism is increased activity of the spleen caused by tumors, anemia, malaria, tuberculosis, and various connective tissue and inflammatory diseases.
An enlarged spleen is often accompanied by a lack of one or more types of blood cells. The enlarged spleen can cause stomach pain on the left side, as well as feeling full prematurely after eating.
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
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