Pre PACES Podcast #82 Splenomegaly
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Mar 3, 2024 Dr. Suzy Morton, a Consultant Haematologist, shares her expertise on the complexities of splenomegaly. She explains the challenges in diagnosing this condition and outlines its various causes, from lymphoid to infective. Symptoms like early satiety and infarction pain are discussed, along with examination tips for bedside clues. Dr. Morton also emphasizes the importance of history and appropriate imaging, revealing how massive splenomegaly can signal critical conditions. A must-listen for anyone keen on mastering this intricate topic!
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Ask For Red-Flag Symptoms
- Most splenomegaly is asymptomatic; ask about early satiety and left upper quadrant pain which suggest large or rapidly enlarging spleens.
- Always seek systemic symptoms (fevers, weight loss, night sweats) that point toward haematological malignancy or infection.
Practice And Pattern Recognition Matter
- Feeling an enlarged spleen is uncommon in routine exams, so practising on real patients and observing others helps build recognition.
- Once you have felt a spleen, you gain confidence and reduce false positives caused by imagination.
Double-Check Any Suspected Spleen
- If you think you feel a spleen, spend extra seconds probing from multiple angles within patient comfort.
- Use the side of your hand and try to get around the organ; you cannot get above the spleen.