where is spleen located - Health Topics
The spleen acts as part of the immune system by filtering blood. Splenomegaly occurs when the spleen grows larger or becomes heavier. Healthcare professionals consider splenomegaly when the spleen is ...
Understanding the Context
Spleen volume larger than the 99th percentile was associated with an 11-fold increased risk for hematologic cancer compared with normal volumes, with 5-year risks as high as 46% among men aged 70 ... An enlarged spleen is characterized as one that is larger than 12 cm (approximately 5 inches) in length or over 400 grams (approximately 14 ounces) in weight. Splenomegaly usually occurs as a result of secondary causes rather than primary diseases of the spleen and is considered a rare condition, but can affect anyone. What causes splenomegaly?
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Yes, you can potentially remain independent after radiation therapy for an enlarged spleen, but it depends on the cause of the splenomegaly, the specific radiation treatment, and your individual response to treatment. Radiation therapy can help shrink an enlarged spleen and alleviate symptoms, but it can also affect the spleen's function and increase the risk of infections. Hello @grecarmar. I'd like to invite a few members to this discussion that have discussed enlarged spleens and removal of spleens in addition to having a blood cancer. Although a few of these members had a different type of blood cancer, they may be able to share their experiences with the spleen.
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@scsimpson, @bordercolliecra, @caroldk, and @shaker1956 all discussed having an enlarged spleen ... But they are all part of the process to help you find out what’s going on in your body with the low hemoglobin and enlarged spleen and liver. Because our bodies are so complex, it can take some time to diagnose blood conditions. I had my pancreas, gallbladder, and spleen removed 3 months ago. Initial recovery in the hospital was tough. Lots of extra fluid weight, drains, pain, GI issues.
Now that I'm home and it's been 3 months, the main things are diarrhea and adjusting to being an insulin dependent diabetic. I'm 41 years old and was in good shape prior to surgery. I'm back to walking an hour a day and doing weight ... My doctor (oncologist) had me have an ultrasound to check the size of my spleen and it showed it to be enlarged at 18cm with normal being about 12cm.