Pediatric wandering spleen: case report and review of literature
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Published on: June 11, 2019
1Department of Pediatrics, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland Children's Hospital, Ohio 44195.
Insights
Wandering spleen, a rare pediatric condition, is likely underdiagnosed. Early diagnosis and treatment, such as splenopexy, can improve outcomes for affected children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Abdominal Imaging
- Medical Case Studies
Background:
- Wandering spleen is an uncommon condition characterized by the spleen's abnormal mobility.
- Diagnosis is particularly challenging in pediatric patients, often leading to delayed recognition.
Observation:
- A comprehensive literature review identified 51 pediatric cases of wandering spleen from 1900 to 1991.
- Analysis focused on patient histories, clinical findings, and management strategies.
Findings:
- The review highlights the diverse presentations and diagnostic difficulties associated with wandering spleen in children.
- Splenopexy emerged as a potential treatment, emphasizing the importance of early surgical intervention.
Implications:
- Increased clinical suspicion for wandering spleen is crucial for timely diagnosis in pediatric patients.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment, including splenopexy, can prevent complications and improve patient prognosis.
Abstract:
Wandering spleen is a rare diagnosis, especially in the pediatric population. We reviewed the English literature from 1900 through April 1991 for all cases of wandering spleen in patients from birth through age 10. There are 50 case reports prior to the one presented here. The goals of this article are to summarize the histories, findings, and treatment of the 51 patients, describe diagnostic and treatment modalities, and increase the clinician's suspicion for wandering spleen. This condition is probably underdiagnosed and potentially treatable by splenopexy if suspected and diagnosed early in the course of disease.
