Accessory spleen in the greater omentum

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Radiology
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Accessory spleens are common congenital anomalies, but their presence in the greater omentum is exceptionally rare.
• Preoperative diagnosis of abdominal masses requires detailed imaging analysis.
• Differentiating splenic tissue from other abdominal tumors is crucial for appropriate management.

Observation:

• A 22-year-old female presented with left upper quadrant abdominal pain.
• Imaging revealed a large mass in the greater omentum, initially suspected to be a tumor, with splenic associations.
• Surgical exploration confirmed the mass as an accessory spleen, notable for its unusual size and location.

Findings:

• The accessory spleen was significantly larger than typically observed.
• Its anatomical location within the greater omentum is highly unusual.
• Imaging characteristics, including 3D reconstruction, aided in the preoperative suspicion.

Implications:

• Increased awareness of rare accessory spleen presentations is necessary for clinicians and radiologists.
• Familiarity with imaging findings can prevent misdiagnosis of omental masses.
• Accurate preoperative diagnosis of accessory spleens avoids unnecessary surgical interventions for benign conditions.