The spleen: an integrated imaging approach

In this review we attempted to demonstrate the imaging appearance of the spectrum of entities that may involve the spleen. The systematic approach reviewing the radiologic findings by modality (plain films, ultrasound, CT, scintigraphy, angiography, and MRI) has been used. We have opted to present the information following pathologic categories (congenital, infections, cysts, benign and malignant tumors, vascular, trauma, and miscellaneous) rather than a pattern approach. A pattern approach may not be practical in spleen since patterns are few and nonspecific. Although a specific diagnosis can be obtained rarely, the information provided by imaging coupled with clinical and laboratory data is capable in many cases of significantly altering patient management. Surgery, percutaneous intervention, medical therapy, or simple observation can be pursued based on the radiological findings.