Multiple pelvic accessory spleen: Rare case report with review of literature

Abstract

Accessory spleen (AS) usually presents as an isolated asymptomatic mass of splenic tissue separated from the body of the actual spleen. Multiple pelvic ASs are more unusual than single pelvic AS. The present study reported on the rare case of multiple pelvic AS. A 39-year-old Chinese woman presented at our hospital with complaints of abdominal pain for one week. A large pelvic mass behind the uterus was identified on ultrasound examination. Multiple AS in the pelvis was primarily considered during the operation and confirmed by histopathological examination after the surgery. The literature in English language was also reviewed by retrieving studies on AS published over the past 30 years, and it was discussed how to diagnose and treat pelvic AS. In conclusion, to the best of our knowledge, the present study provided the first case report of multiple pelvic AS. The gynecologist should be aware of the rare possibility of an AS in patients with abdominal and pelvic complaints and/or a pelvic mass. Pelvic AS is generally determined during radiological investigations or during open or laparoscopic surgeries.