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Wandering spleen presenting as recurrent pancreatitis
Ricardo Lebron1, Michael Self, Alicia Mangram
1Department of Surgery, Methodist Dallas Medical Center, Dallas Texas 75203-1201, USA.
JSLS : Journal of the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons
|September 4, 2008
Summary
A wandering spleen, caused by lax ligaments, can present with varied symptoms and is diagnosed via imaging. Laparoscopic splenectomy is a key treatment for this rare condition.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Case Reports
- Abdominal Imaging
Background:
- A wandering spleen is characterized by the spleen's abnormal mobility due to lax splenic ligaments.
- This condition can lead to complications such as torsion, infarction, and pancreatitis.
Observation:
- A 20-year-old female presented with recurrent pancreatitis attributed to a wandering spleen.
- The diagnosis was confirmed using imaging studies.
Findings:
- Wandering spleen diagnosis can be challenging due to intermittent torsion.
- Computed tomography (CT) is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Laparoscopic splenectomy was successfully performed in this case.
Implications:
- Accurate imaging is vital for diagnosing wandering spleen.
- Laparoscopic surgery offers an effective treatment option.
- Understanding the varied presentations is key for timely intervention.
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