[Splenic nodules and sickle cell anemia]

We report 4 patients with sickle cell anemia presenting with intra-splenic benign nodules corresponding to islands of preserved tissue within splenic ferro-calcinosis.

Ultrasound, CT and MRI findings were evaluated and compared to a follow-up study by ultrasound and CT done after 6 to 12 months.

Ultrasound showed multiple well-defined rounded nodules appearing hypoechoic compared to the rest of the spleen that was hyperechoic. On CT, the nodules were homogenous, hypodense relative to the spleen, isodense to the liver in 3 cases and hypodense to the liver in 1 case. On MRI, the nodules appeared relatively hyperintense within low-signal-intensity spleens. The ultrasound and CT follow-up study demonstrated no remarkable change.

In sickle cell patients, intra-splenic benign nodules corresponding to normal splenic tissue may be identified on imaging studies. The differential diagnosis is discussed.