Splenomegaly

Alternative names:

enlarged spleen; spleen enlargement

Home care:

Rupture of the enlarged spleen is particularly possible in infectious mononucleosis and several other causes of splenomegaly. Appropriate limitation of activity including avoiding contact sports will help prevent trauma that might cause the spleen to rupture.

Care will be required for the specific condition causing the splenomegaly. Follow the instructions given by your health care provider regarding appropriate care.

Call your health care provider if:

Splenomegaly is usually detected during a physical examination by a health care provider.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting splenomegaly in detail may include:

• When was the spleen enlargement first noted?
• Were you aware of a problem or was it discovered by your health care provider during examination for something else?
• What other symptoms were also present?

Splenomegaly is noted by the health care provider during the physical examination. A detailed examination of the abdomen will probably be performed.

Diagnostic tests may be required, including:

• abdominal film
• blood tests such as a CBC
• tests for suspected causes

After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider as the cause of the splenomegaly, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.