Hematological evaluation of splenomegaly

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Internal Medicine
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Splenomegaly is a common clinical finding with numerous underlying causes.
• Hematological evaluation is essential for diagnosing the etiology of splenomegaly.
• Understanding the relative frequency of these causes aids in clinical management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of clinical conditions causing splenomegaly that necessitate hematological assessment.
• To analyze the spectrum of hematological disorders associated with splenomegaly in a specific geographic region.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted over three years at a military hospital.
• Patients with palpable spleens were included, excluding those with established causes like liver disease or malaria.
• Initial evaluation involved clinical history, blood smear microscopy, and blood counts, followed by bone marrow examination or hemolytic anemia workup as indicated.

Main Results:

• Hematological malignancies were the most frequent cause in adults (37%) and a significant cause in children (18%).
• Beta-thalassemia (55%) and other hemolytic anemias (13.5%) were predominant in the pediatric group.
• Megaloblastic anemia (13%) and bacterial infections (9%) were also noted in adults.

Conclusions:

• Hematological workup, particularly bone marrow examination, is highly informative for diagnosing splenomegaly.
• Hematological malignancies and anemias are significant contributors to splenomegaly across age groups.
• The findings underscore the importance of comprehensive hematological assessment in patients with splenomegaly.