What Are The Symptoms Of A Cyst On The Spleen?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Often, true splenic cysts are asymptomatic and found incidentally. When symptomatic, patients may complain of vague

upper abdominal fullness and discomfort

, early satiety, pleuritic chest pain, shortness of breath, left back or shoulder pain, or urinary symptoms due to compression of the left kidney.

What causes cysts in the spleen?

Splenic cysts can be divided into true epidermoid cysts (lined by epithelium) and secondary cysts resulting from hemorrhage, infection (hydatid disease), or infarction. The most common cause of a splenic cyst is

trauma, followed by hydatid disease

(Fig. 5-22).

Is a cyst on the spleen serious?

Although a significant percentage of splenic cysts are asymptomatic, larger cysts may cause vague upper abdominal pain as a result of capsular distention or pressure on adjacent organs. Major complications like hemorrhage into the cyst or peritonitis secondary to cyst rupture are

rare

.

What is the treatment for a cyst on the spleen?

Superficially located cysts should be treated by

laparoscopic marsupialization or fenestration

. Cysts located deep in the poles of the spleen should be managed by partial splenectomy, which is the treatment of choice. Laparoscopic partial splenectomy should be performed by experienced surgeons.

How rare are spleen cysts?

Nowadays, splenic cysts are known as rare clinical condition with

0.07% incidence in general population

. According to the presence or absence of cellular epithelial lining, these cysts are classified into primary (true) and secondary (false) cysts.

What can happen if a cyst is left untreated?

If left untreated, benign cysts can cause serious complications including:

Infection

– the cyst fills with bacteria and pus, and becomes an abscess. If the abscess bursts inside the body, there is a risk of blood poisoning (septicaemia).

Can splenic cysts be cancerous?


Malignant, isolated splenic masses can occur but are extremely rare

. While lymphoma and angiosarcoma (17) can present this way, the latter is very rare.

Can cysts on spleen cause pain?

Often, true splenic cysts are

asymptomatic

and found incidentally. When symptomatic, patients may complain of vague upper abdominal fullness and discomfort, early satiety, pleuritic chest pain, shortness of breath, left back or shoulder pain, or urinary symptoms due to compression of the left kidney.

What kind of doctor treats spleen cysts?

For example,

hematologists

(doctors who specialize in treating blood disorders), oncologists (cancer specialists), and gastroenterologists (liver and digestive tract specialists) all commonly take care of patients who may have enlarged spleen as a response to another condition.

Do you get put to sleep for cyst removal?

You may be given a sedative along

with a local or regional anesthetic

to relax you and reduce anxiety. A general anesthetic relaxes your muscles and puts you to sleep. All three types of anesthesia should keep you from feeling pain during the operation. Your health care provider will cut around the cyst and remove it.

What causes cysts on liver and spleen?

The cause of

most liver cysts is unknown

. Liver cysts can be present at birth or can develop at a later time. They usually grow slowly and are not detected until adulthood. Some cysts are caused by a parasite, echinococcus that is found in sheep in different parts of the world.

What is a parasitic splenic cyst?

Hydatid cysts are

caused by a tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus

. They usually occur in the liver. When occurring in spleen they present with vague symptoms which make it difficult for the physicians to diagnose.

Can a spleen hurt?

A painful spleen

Spleen pain is usually

felt as a pain behind your left ribs

. It may be tender when you touch the area. This can be a sign of a damaged, ruptured or enlarged spleen.

Can you get rid of a cyst without surgery?

While it may be tempting, you should not try to remove a cyst on your own.

Most cysts on the skin are harmless and resolve without treatment

. While there are a few home remedies, some cysts do require medical treatment. It’s best to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

How do you dissolve a cyst naturally?

  1. Hot compress. Simple heat is the most recommended and effective home measure for draining or shrinking cysts. …
  2. Tea tree oil. …
  3. Apple cider vinegar. …
  4. Aloe vera. …
  5. Castor oil. …
  6. Witch hazel. …
  7. Honey.

Can a cyst go away on its own?


Epidermoid cysts often go away without any treatment

. If the cyst drains on its own, it may return. Most cysts don’t cause problems or need treatment. They are often not painful, unless they become inflamed or infected.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.