Hypersplenism is a medical condition in which the spleen becomes overactive and starts to destroy blood cells prematurely. The spleen is an important organ in the immune system, where it plays a role in filtering the blood and removing old or damaged red blood cells. In hypersplenism, the spleen becomes enlarged and overactive, leading to a decrease in the number of circulating blood cells.
Hypersplenism can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions, including liver disease, blood disorders, infections, and certain types of cancer. Common symptoms of hypersplenism include fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath, as well as anemia, thrombocytopenia, and leukopenia. Hypersplenism can also cause abdominal pain and bloating, and can increase the risk of infection and bleeding.
Treatment of hypersplenism depends on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. In some cases, treatment may involve medications to manage the underlying condition or to stimulate blood cell production. In more severe cases, surgical removal of the spleen (splenectomy) may be necessary. In some cases, partial splenic embolization (PSE) may be used to reduce the size and function of the spleen, improving blood counts while preserving its ability to filter the blood. Treatment of hypersplenism should be managed by a healthcare provider and tailored to the individual needs of the patient.