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Splenomegaly in acute infections due to group A streptococci and viruses

P M Higgins

    Epidemiology and Infection
    |October 1, 1992
    PubMed

    Insights

    Enlarged spleen (splenomegaly) can temporarily occur with common infections like pharyngitis. Group A streptococci and viral infections were frequently associated with this finding in general practice.

    Area of Science:

    • General Practice
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Pediatrics

    Background:

    • Splenomegaly, or enlarged spleen, is a clinical sign that can be associated with various infections.
    • Understanding the common causes of temporary splenomegaly in primary care settings is important for accurate diagnosis.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the incidence and potential causes of temporary splenomegaly observed in general practice over a nine-year period.

    Main Methods:

    • Retrospective analysis of general practice records over 9 years.
    • Identification of episodes of splenomegaly and associated clinical diagnoses.
    • Microbiological and serological investigations to determine causative agents.

    Main Results:

    • Thirty-seven episodes of temporary splenomegaly were recorded, most commonly associated with pharyngitis/tonsillitis (29 episodes).
    • Identified aetiologies included Group A streptococci (14 episodes), adenoviruses/coxsackie B viruses (4 episodes), and atypical mononuclear cells (4 episodes).
    • Four episodes showed evidence of both streptococcal and viral infections. Streptococcal-only infections were shorter and year-round.

    Conclusions:

    • Temporary splenomegaly is a notable finding in various common infections, particularly streptococcal pharyngitis and viral upper respiratory tract infections.
    • Prompt identification of causative agents like streptococci and viruses aids in understanding the duration and presentation of illness.

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