From the Research
The term "splenis cervicis" is not a recognized medical condition, and patients experiencing symptoms in the neck or spleen area should consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations based on specific symptoms and clinical findings. The spleen (splenis) is an organ located in the upper left quadrant of the abdomen, while cervicis refers to the neck region, and these structures are anatomically distinct and not directly connected 1.
Key Points to Consider
- The spleen functions as part of the immune and lymphatic systems, filtering blood and storing platelets, while the cervical region contains vertebrae, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels supporting the head and neck.
- If symptoms are related to the spleen, conditions such as splenosis, which is an acquired form of ectopic splenic tissue, may be considered, but this typically occurs in the abdominal or pelvic cavity, not the cervical region 2, 3.
- For patients with a history of splenic trauma or surgery, splenosis can be a consideration, but it is usually asymptomatic and found incidentally, with diagnosis often confirmed through imaging studies that show tissue with characteristics identical to the native spleen 1, 4.
- Treatment for splenosis or other spleen-related conditions is typically only necessary in symptomatic cases, and the approach can vary from conservative management to minimally invasive procedures like transarterial embolization for rare cases of gastrointestinal bleeding 5.
Recommendations for Clinical Practice
- A thorough medical history and physical examination are essential for patients presenting with symptoms that could be related to either the spleen or the cervical region.
- Imaging studies, such as ultrasound, CT, MRI, or nuclear medicine examinations, can help diagnose conditions affecting the spleen or cervical region, including splenosis, by identifying tissue with characteristics of splenic tissue 1, 2.
- Consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment planning, as the management of spleen-related conditions or cervical issues depends on the specific diagnosis and symptoms presented by the patient.