Scintigraphic diagnosis of polysplenia in the adult

The authors describe an adult patient with low index of suspicion for polysplenia. The diagnostic contribution of various investigative modalities is considered, and the key role of scintigraphy is specifically highlighted.

CT scan findings revealed multiple abdominal and retroperitoneal masses. Needle biopsy of a flank mass was nonspecific. Tc-99m sulfur colloid liver spleen scintigraphy and Tc-99m heat-denatured RBC scans showed the presence of polysplenia.

Multiple spleens can be mistaken for abdominal neoplasms on CT. Biopsy results may not always be helpful. In patients in whom there is such a diagnostic dilemma, Tc-99m heat-denatured RBC scans can successfully establish the definitive diagnosis of polysplenia.