Splenic syndrome: a rare indication for splenectomy

Splenic infarction due to sickle cell trait and high-altitude stress has been reported in the literature. Contributing factors leading to infarction are degree of altitude stress and status of physical condition. Medical therapy, which consists of evacuation from high altitude, intravenous fluids, supplemental oxygen, and pain control, has been the mainstay of treatment. However, some patients require surgical intervention. We describe six patients with sickle cell trait who sustained splenic infarctions due to high-altitude stress; two of these patients required splenectomy for near-total splenic necrosis and intractable pain. A review of the literature demonstrates that the common indications for splenectomy are splenic rupture, extensive splenic necrosis, or persistent abdominal pain.