Post-splenectomy syndrome
Definition
 |
Post-splenectomy syndrome is a group of symptoms and signs that frequently occur after surgical removal of the spleen (splenectomy).
These include:
- Destruction of red blood cells
- Increased susceptibility to severe infections, especially with organisms such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria meningitidis
- Thrombocytosis (increased platelet count, which can cause blood clots)
Alternative Names
Splenectomy - post-surgery syndrome
Review Date: 3/2/2009
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
 |
Link to Page |  |
Print Page |  |
Email Page |
