Is a 20 cm spleen normal?

Everything you need to know about splenomegaly. Massive splenomegaly occurs when the spleen is larger than 20 cm (7.9 in) or weighs more than 1,000 g (2.2 lb). This article will discuss some potential causes and symptoms of splenomegaly, as well as the treatment options currently available.

How many cm is a normal spleen?

Currently, the literature states that 95% of adult spleens are less than 12 cm (9,12–15) or even 11 cm (16) in length.

Is an enlarged spleen serious?

Left untreated, an enlarged spleen can lead to serious complications. In most cases, treatment of the underlying cause of the enlarged spleen can prevent removal of the spleen. In some cases, the spleen will need to be removed surgically (splenectomy).

How big is a spleen supposed to be?

The spleen varies in size and shape between people, but it’s commonly fist-shaped, purple, and about 4 inches long. Because the spleen is protected by the rib cage, you can’t easily feel it unless it’s abnormally enlarged. The spleen plays multiple supporting roles in the body.

What foods to avoid if you have an enlarged spleen?

It is important to avoid foods that are “damp”: alcohol, fat, fast sugars and excessive quantities of dairy products — for example, “fromage blanc,” which has a moisture content of 80%. The spleen is sensitive to erratic eating habits and can be weakened by skipping breakfast, copious or late dinners, and snacking.

Can stress cause enlarged spleen?

“Stress appears to prompt the release of stem cells from the bone marrow to the spleen, where they develop into white blood cells, or monocytes, and expand over time,” Godbout said. “Then the spleen becomes a reservoir of inflammatory cells.”

Is a 15 cm spleen normal?

The upper limit of normal adult splenic length is traditionally cited at 12 cm, but lengths upwards of 14 cm can be seen in normal, taller males 7.

Is a 10 cm spleen normal?

The following guidelines are proposed for the upper limit of normal splenic length based on this simple, easy to use, one-measurement technique: splenic length no greater than 6.0 cm at 3 months, 6.5 cm at 6 months, and 7.0 cm at 12 months, 8.0 cm at 2 years, 9.0 at 4 years, 9.5 cm at 6 years, 10.0 cm at 8 years, 11.0 …

What to avoid if you have an enlarged spleen?

Avoid contact sports — such as soccer, football and hockey — and limit other activities as recommended by your doctor. Modifying your activities can reduce the risk of a ruptured spleen. It’s also important to wear a seat belt.

Can u live without a spleen?

Some people are born without a spleen or need to have it removed because of illness or injury. The spleen is a fist-sized organ in the upper left side of your abdomen, next to your stomach and behind your left ribs. It’s an important part of your immune system, but you can survive without it.

Is coffee bad for spleen?

Coffee moves qi and blood and has a dispersing quality both ascending (stimulating the mind and lifting the spirit) and descending (purgative, diuretic and increased peristalsis). Its flavour is sweet and bitter and is therefore associated with the spleen and heart organs.

Is cheese bad for spleen?

Think of the spleen as being powered by heat. Frozen food, icy drinks, cucumber, bitter or winter melon, lettuce and grapefruit deplete the spleen’s “fire”. Foods that are “damp” – such as dairy products, refined sugars and sweets – can also smother the digestive process.

What is the normal length of a spleen?

A normally sized spleen measures up to 12 cm in craniocaudal length. A length of 12 cm to 20 cm indicates splenomegaly, and a length greater than 20 cm is definitive of massive splenomegaly.

How can you tell if your spleen is big or small?

It can also measure the width and thickness of the spleen, which can typically tell the doctor whether the organ is abnormally large or small. In most cases, however, the concern is about an enlarged spleen. An abdominal ultrasound can help detect other conditions, too.

Is the spleen part of the immune system?

The spleen is an organ found in virtually all vertebrates. Similar in structure to a large lymph node, it acts primarily as a blood filter. The word spleen comes from Ancient Greek σπλήν (splḗn). The spleen plays important roles in regard to red blood cells (erythrocytes) and the immune system.

What are the functions of an enlarged spleen?

Your spleen: Prevents infection by producing white blood cells (lymphocytes) and acting as a first line of defense against disease-causing organisms An enlarged spleen affects each of these vital functions.