From the Guidelines
Splenic infarction is primarily caused by a disruption in blood flow to the spleen, which can result from various factors including trauma, blood clots, and certain medical conditions. The causes of spleen infarction can be categorized into several key areas:
- Trauma: Physical injury to the spleen, such as from a car accident or a fall, can cause splenic infarction by damaging the blood vessels that supply the spleen 1.
- Blood clots: Clots that form in the blood vessels, such as those caused by atrial fibrillation or other heart conditions, can travel to the spleen and block blood flow, leading to infarction 1.
- Certain medical conditions: Conditions such as sickle cell disease, which affects the shape and function of red blood cells, can increase the risk of splenic infarction by blocking small blood vessels in the spleen 1.
- Infections: Certain infections, such as infectious mononucleosis or malaria, can cause the spleen to become enlarged, which can compromise blood flow and lead to infarction 1. It's worth noting that the management of splenic trauma and infarction should be multidisciplinary and based on the physiology of the patient, the anatomy of the injury, and the associated lesions, as stated in the guidelines for adult and pediatric patients 1. The treatment of splenic infarction typically focuses on addressing the underlying cause, providing supportive care, and managing symptoms, with anticoagulation often used for embolic causes and pain management for symptomatic relief 1. In terms of prevention, mechanical prophylaxis, such as the use of compression stockings or intermittent pneumatic compression devices, can help reduce the risk of venous thromboembolism in patients at high risk, including those with splenic trauma or infarction 1. Overall, the key to managing splenic infarction is to promptly identify and address the underlying cause, while also providing supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent further complications.
From the Research
Causes of Spleen Infarction
The causes of spleen infarction can be varied and are often related to underlying medical conditions. Some of the main causes include:
- Cardioembolic events, such as atrial fibrillation, which can lead to thromboembolic splenic infarction 2, 3
- Vascular disorders, including atherosclerosis and thrombosis of the splenic vein 2, 4, 3
- Hematologic disorders, such as antiphospholipid syndrome 3
- Infections, such as endocarditis 2
- Chronic pancreatitis, which can cause perivenous inflammation and lead to splenic vein thrombosis 4, 5
- Anatomical variations, such as atypical arterial supply to the spleen, which can increase the risk of infarction 6
Underlying Mechanisms
The underlying mechanisms of spleen infarction can be complex and involve multiple factors. Some of the main mechanisms include:
- Thromboembolization, which can occur in association with cardiovascular disorders 2
- Vascular occlusion, which can be caused by thrombosis or embolism 4, 3
- Inflammation, which can be caused by chronic pancreatitis or other conditions 4, 5
- Hemodynamic changes, which can occur in association with anatomical variations or other conditions 6
Diagnostic Approaches
The diagnostic approaches for spleen infarction can vary depending on the underlying cause and clinical presentation. Some of the most commonly used diagnostic tests include: