A giant splenic hamartoma associated with hematologic disorders: A case report

Ann Med Surg (Lond). 2018 Nov 16:36:199-202. doi: 10.1016/j.amsu.2018.11.003. eCollection 2018 Dec.

Abstract

Introduction: Splenic hamartoma is a primary benign tumor of the spleen, with approximately 150 cases documented in the literature to date, with only a few cases associated with symptoms and hematologic disorders.

Presentation of case: A 49-year-old female with no past medical history, presented to the emergency department complaining of a three-month history of intermittent abdominal pain and 12 kg of weight loss. Physical examination revealed abdominal distension and a big palpable and painless mass on the left side of her abdomen measuring 14 cm. Laboratory tests were significant for anemia and thrombocytopenia, with levels of 9.7 g/dL and 47 × 109/L respectively. Ultrasonography showed splenomegaly with a hypoechoic splenic mass and the computed tomography showed a 14 cm splenic mass with heterogeneous enhancement during the arterial phase. A laparotomy with splenectomy was unremarkably accomplished. Histological examination revealed abnormal red pulp proliferation and showed unorganized sinusoid-like vascular channels, compatible with splenic hamartoma. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 3 without complications. She was seen at the ambulatory clinic 6-months after the surgical procedure with a normal blood count.

Discussion: Although splenic hamartoma is very rare, it must be included in the differential diagnosis of splenic mass-forming lesions. This type of tumor has some specific radiological features. However, the diagnosis of this disease must be based on clinical features and confirmed by pathology.

Conclusion: In patients with splenic tumors, splenectomy is indicated in cases where malignancy cannot be excluded, when symptoms occur, or in the rare cases of consequent hematologic disorders.

Keywords: Spleen tumor; Splenectomy; Splenic hamartoma; Splenoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports