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Hypersplenism

Definition

Hypersplenism is an overactive spleen. The spleen is an organ found in the upper left side of your abdomen. The spleen helps filter old and damaged cells from your bloodstream. If your spleen is overactive, it removes the blood cells too early and too quickly. An overactive spleen is often, but not always, enlarged (splenomegaly).

The spleen plays a key role in helping your body fight infections. Problems with the spleen can make you more likely to develop infections.

Causes

Common causes of hypersplenism include:

Cirrhosis (advanced liver disease)
Lymphoma
Malaria
Tuberculosis
Various connective tissue and inflammatory diseases

Symptoms

Symptoms include:

Enlarged spleen
Low level of one or more types of blood cells
Feeling full too soon after eating
Stomach pain on the left side

References

Arber DA. Spleen. In: Goldblum JR, Lamps LW, McKenney JK, Myers JL, eds. Rosai and Ackerman's Surgical Pathology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 38.

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.

Winter JN. Approach to the patient with lymphadenopathy or splenomegaly. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 154.

Review Date: 4/1/2025
Reviewed By: Frank D. Brodkey, MD, FCCM, Associate Professor, Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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