From the Guidelines
The normal size of a spleen is approximately 11 cm in length, 7 cm in width, and 3-4 cm in thickness, weighing about 150-200 grams. The spleen is typically not palpable during physical examination in healthy individuals as it sits protected under the left ribcage. Size can vary somewhat based on body size, with taller individuals generally having slightly larger spleens. During physical examination, the spleen is considered enlarged (splenomegaly) if it extends below the left costal margin or can be felt during abdominal palpation. Imaging studies like ultrasound, CT, or MRI provide more precise measurements when needed. The spleen's size is important clinically because enlargement can indicate various conditions including infections, blood disorders, liver disease, or cancer. Conversely, a small or atrophied spleen may suggest other pathologies or may occur after certain infections.
Some key points to consider when evaluating spleen size include:
- The spleen size can be assessed through physical examination or imaging studies 1
- Splenomegaly can be a sign of underlying conditions such as chronic myeloid leukemia, which is often associated with a higher frequency of splenomegaly and larger spleen size in children and adolescents compared to adults 1
- Accurate measurement of spleen size is crucial in diagnosing and managing conditions related to splenomegaly, and imaging studies can provide more precise measurements when needed.
It's worth noting that while the provided evidence includes studies on sickle cell disease and chronic myeloid leukemia, the key information regarding normal spleen size is not directly addressed in these studies. However, the general information on spleen size and its clinical significance remains relevant. The most recent and highest quality study is not directly available for this specific question, but based on general medical knowledge, the normal size of a spleen is approximately 11 cm in length, 7 cm in width, and 3-4 cm in thickness, weighing about 150-200 grams.
From the Research
Normal Spleen Size
- The normal size of a spleen can vary depending on several factors, including body height and sex 2.
- A study published in 2016 found that spleen length and volume were significantly associated with sex, body height, and weight, with men and taller and heavier individuals having longer and larger spleens 2.
- The same study established height- and sex-corrected normal values for spleen length and volume, with a previously reported upper limit of normal of 12 cm being exceeded by 6% of women and 26% of men 2.
- Another study published in 2010 mentioned that splenomegaly (spleen size > 10 cm) was a condition in patients with HCV-related cirrhosis and low platelet count 3.
- However, it is essential to note that spleen size can be influenced by various factors, and there is no one-size-fits-all definition of a normal spleen size 2.