Cancer of the spleen refers to the abnormal, uncontrolled growth of cells within the spleen, a vital organ located in the upper left side of the abdomen. The spleen is responsible for filtering the blood, fighting infections, and producing and storing certain blood cells. When cells in the spleen undergo malignant transformation and reproduce uncontrollably, it leads to the development of cancerous tumors or masses within the organ, termed "cancer of the spleen."
Cancer of the spleen, also known as splenic cancer or primary splenic malignancy, is a rare condition, with various types of cancers potentially affecting the spleen, including lymphomas, sarcomas, and metastatic cancers that have spread to the spleen from other organs. Symptoms of splenic cancer may include abdominal pain or discomfort, fatigue, unintentional weight loss, anemia, and an enlarged spleen palpable through physical examination.
The exact causes of splenic cancer are unclear, but risk factors may include a weakened immune system, previous radiation therapy or chemotherapy, genetic predisposition, exposure to certain chemicals or toxins, or underlying hematological disorders. Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, and may necessitate a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells.
Treatment options for cancer of the spleen often depend on the type, stage, and extent of the disease, as well as the overall health of the individual. Treatments may include surgery to remove the spleen (splenectomy), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapies, or a combination of these modalities. Prognosis varies depending on the specific type and stage of splenic cancer, with some cases being potentially curable while others may have a more guarded outlook.
