Splenic infarction
Definition
Splenic infarction is the death of tissue (necrosis) in the spleen due to a blockage in blood flow.
Causes
Common causes of splenic infarction include:
- Blood clots from the heart
- Blood cancer, such as lymphoma or leukemia
- Diseases in which the blood clots more easily, such as sickle cell disease
- Inflammation of the pancreas or a mass in the pancreas pressing on the blood vessels to the spleen
References
Ollila TA, Zayac AS, Schiffman FJ. The spleen and its disorders. In: Hoffman R, Benz EJ, Silberstein LE, et al, eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 156.
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