CT of splenosis: patterns and pitfalls.

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Pathology
• Surgical Complications

Background:

• Splenic implants, known as splenosis, can develop following traumatic splenic injury or splenectomy.
• These ectopic splenic tissues are not confined to the typical left upper quadrant.
• Splenosis can present with diverse imaging findings, potentially mimicking other intraabdominal or pelvic pathologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To illustrate the varied imaging appearances of intraabdominal and pelvic splenosis.
• To enhance radiologists' ability to identify splenosis in non-traditional locations.
• To differentiate splenosis from other conditions that may require intervention.

Main Methods:

• This study is a pictorial essay.
• It reviews imaging studies of patients with confirmed splenosis.
• The focus is on the radiological presentation of splenosis in various intraabdominal and pelvic locations.

Main Results:

• Splenosis demonstrates a wide spectrum of imaging characteristics.
• Ectopic splenic tissue can be found throughout the abdomen and pelvis.
• The appearance of splenosis can vary, sometimes closely resembling other masses or lesions.

Conclusions:

• Radiologists can diagnose splenosis in its clinical context, especially in atypical presentations.
• Correct identification of splenosis can prevent misdiagnosis and avoid unnecessary invasive procedures like biopsies.