[Unusual pathology of the spleen]

The Authors report 7 cases of unusual spleen pathology represented by 2 real cysts, 1 pseudocyst, 1 hydatid cyst, 2 abscesses, 1 splenic artery aneurysm. Pathophysiological hypotheses are examined, and clinical and diagnostic considerations are stressed, evaluating particularly anatomo-histologic characteristics and the differential diagnosis through non invasive imaging techniques. All patients were subjected to splenectomy via laparotomy, except for the case of real cyst where an inferior hemisplenectomy was performed. In the case of splenic artery aneurysm, an urgent aneurysmectomy was required together with splenectomy, considering the young age of the patient (29 years old), and the type of aneurysm presenting in a double rupture phase. Reoperation was necessary in only one patient to drain an hematic abscess. After a 9 year follow up all the patients are well.