Spleen infectious and inflammatory disorders

Abstract

Splenic infection and inflammation are uncommon and both the clinical and imaging findings are most often nonspecific. It is during the acute phase in which radiological studies can be helpful in the detection of splenic lesions, as well as to help guide clinical treatment. More commonly, imaging features related to benign conditions are seen in their chronic state and are often clinically not significant. Because the imaging features are nonspecific with much overlap between differing pathologies, it is imperative to combine radiographic findings and clinical histories. This should include, but not be limited to fever, sepsis, immune status, prior trauma, prior transplant surgery, and chemotherapy. Geographic background and serologic testing may also aid in the diagnosis.