Author
Home > Health > What is the Difference Between Hypersplenism and Splenomegaly?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Hypersplenism and Splenomegaly?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

Hypersplenism and splenomegaly are two abnormal conditions related to the spleen, but they have distinct differences:

  • Splenomegaly refers strictly to the enlargement of the spleen. It can be defined as a spleen weight above the upper limit of the standard reference range or as an abdominal CT scan showing the spleen to be 2-3 times larger than normal.
  • Hypersplenism is characterized by splenomegaly and a reduction in at least one cell line, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets. It occurs when the spleen becomes abnormally enlarged and overactive, removing too many blood cells from circulation.

In summary, splenomegaly is a structural abnormality, while hypersplenism is a functional abnormality that involves both splenomegaly and peripheral cytopenia. Hypersplenism can result from various causes, including many diseases, and affects the prognosis of the condition. Treatment for hypersplenism may include splenectomy (removal of the spleen) and other individualized therapies depending on the underlying cause.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Hypersplenism and Splenomegaly?
  • Comparative Table: Hypersplenism vs Splenomegaly

    • Comparative Table: Hypersplenism vs Splenomegaly

    The main difference between hypersplenism and splenomegaly is that hypersplenism is a functional abnormality of the spleen, whereas splenomegaly is a structural abnormality. Here is a table comparing the two:

    Feature Hypersplenism Splenomegaly
    Definition Hypersplenism is a syndrome characterized by an enlarged spleen (splenomegaly) and cytopenias (anemia, leukopenia, or thrombocytopenia). Splenomegaly refers strictly to spleen enlargement, distinct from hypersplenism, which connotes overactive function by a spleen of any size.
    Causes Common causes of splenomegaly that may lead to hypersplenism include conditions such as infections, certain hemolytic anemias, and infiltrative processes like tumors or amyloidosis. Splenomegaly can be caused by various conditions, including infections, certain hemolytic anemias, and infiltrative processes like tumors or amyloidosis.
    Symptoms Symptoms of hypersplenism may include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and paleness. Splenomegaly may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain or discomfort, a feeling of fullness in the belly, and pain in the left shoulder.
    Treatment Treatment for hypersplenism depends on the underlying cause and may include medications or, in severe cases, removal of the spleen (splenectomy). Treatment for splenomegaly depends on the underlying cause, and if the splenomegaly is related to hypersplenism, a splenectomy may be indicated to correct the hypersplenism.

    Both conditions are abnormalities of the spleen, but they differ in their functional and structural aspects.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.