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Isodense splenic mass: hamartoma, a case report.
1Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York 10461.
Summary
Splenic hamartomas are rare, benign tumors. This case highlights how they can be missed on standard CT scans but are visible with ultrasound and nuclear imaging.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Hamartoma of the spleen is an extremely rare benign splenic tumor.
- Distinguishing benign splenic lesions from malignant ones is crucial for patient management.
Observation:
- This case report details a splenic hamartoma presenting as an isodense mass on computed tomography (CT) scans.
- The mass was consistently isodense both before and after the administration of intravenous contrast.
Findings:
- Despite being isodense on CT, the splenic hamartoma was clearly visualized using ultrasonography (sonography).
- Nuclear medicine scans also effectively demonstrated the presence and characteristics of the benign splenic mass.
Implications:
- Routine computed tomography may fail to detect splenic hamartomas due to their isodense nature.
- Utilizing additional imaging modalities like sonography and nuclear medicine is vital for accurate diagnosis of rare splenic tumors.