Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 26, 2026
04:40
Bloodless Laparoscopic Partial Splenectomy Assisted by Bipolar Radiofrequency Excision Hemostatic Device
Published on: November 4, 2022
1.2K
Splenic Cysts and the Case of Mistaken Identity
Rachel M Krzeczowski1, Theresa N Jackson2, Wareef Kabbani3
1Clinical Research, Methodist Health System, Dallas, USA.
Cureus
|March 28, 2022
Summary
This study reports a rare case of endometriosis in the spleen, challenging previous assumptions of splenic immunity. Surgical removal of the spleen successfully treated the patient
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Pathology
- Surgical Case Report
Background:
- Endometriosis is a condition where endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus.
- The spleen has been considered immune to endometriosis implantation.
- Intraperitoneal and extraperitoneal endometriosis are known presentations.
Observation:
- A patient presented with persistent abdominal pain and multicystic splenic disease.
- The patient had a history of traumatic splenorrhaphy (surgical repair of the spleen).
Findings:
- Pathology confirmed intraparenchymal endometriosis within the spleen.
- This is a rare instance of splenic endometriosis, likely from surgical seeding.
- Open splenectomy resolved the patient's symptoms.
Implications:
- This case expands the known anatomical sites for endometriosis.
- It suggests the spleen is not entirely immune to endometriosis.
- Highlights the importance of considering endometriosis in splenic pathology after abdominal surgery.
Related Concept Videos
01:17Gallbladder
The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ that plays a crucial role in our digestive system. Measuring about 10 cm in length, it is comparable in size to a kiwi fruit and is located in a hollow area on the lower surface of the liver. The gallbladder's primary function is to store and concentrate bile, a fluid produced by the liver that aids in digestion.
The gallbladder's anatomy consists of three regions: the fundus, body, and neck. Extending from the neck, the cystic duct joins the common...
The gallbladder's anatomy consists of three regions: the fundus, body, and neck. Extending from the neck, the cystic duct joins the common...
01:28Amebiasis
Entamoeba histolytica, a protozoan parasite, is responsible for intestinal and extraintestinal amebiasis. Though a significant proportion of infections remain asymptomatic, approximately 50 million individuals annually are estimated to present with clinical disease, resulting in up to 100,000 deaths globally. The disease burden is disproportionately high in regions with lower socioeconomic status, such as parts of India, Africa, Mexico, and Latin America.Etiology and TransmissionThe infective...
01:19Appendicitis
Appendicitis is an acute inflammatory condition of the vermiform appendix, most commonly caused by obstruction of its lumen. The appendix is a narrow, blind-ended pouch that extends from the cecum, making it particularly prone to obstruction. Causes include fecaliths, lymphoid hyperplasia (often after viral infections), parasites, tumors, or foreign bodies. This obstruction initiates a cascade of pathological changes.Luminal Obstruction and Early InflammationAfter obstruction, normal mucosal...
01:20Cholecystitis
Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, most commonly caused by obstruction of the cystic duct. This blockage prevents bile from draining, leading to gallbladder distension, inflammation, and potentially serious complications. This condition may present acutely or chronically and can happen with or without gallstones.EtiologyAbout 95% of cholecystitis cases are calculous, caused by gallstones blocking the cystic duct, leading to bile accumulation and inflammation of the gallbladder...