Splenosis Mimicking a Mesenteric Tumor: Report of a Case

Abstract

Splenosis represents the autotransplantation of splenic tissue that usually follows splenic trauma or surgery. It is a common but underdiagnosed entity before surgical exploration. Splenosis is most commonly misdiagnosed as a primary or metastatic tumor and also may be confused with accessory spleen. Using conventional imaging techniques, including abdominal ultrasonography, computerized tomography and angiography, this ectopic splenic tissue is indistinguishable from primary or metastatic neoplasm. Radionuclide scintigraphy is the diagnostic test of choice with high specificity and sensitivity. Because splenosis is not a pathologic process but may actually be beneficial to the patient, it is important to recognize splenosis and not to confuse it with malignancy. We present a case of splenosis which was initially diagnosed as mesenteric tumor and led to unnecessary surgery. The pathophysiology, clinical presentation and diagnostic studies of splenosis are also reviewed.