Inquiry About Spleen Lesion
Greetings, doctors! I’m a 34-year-old female, 5'4" tall, weighing 250 pounds. On March 14, 2025, I visited the emergency room due to discomfort in my kidneys. A CT scan performed (without contrast) revealed a small low-density lesion measuring 1.5 cm on my spleen, which led to advice for a follow-up with my primary care physician. My PCP subsequently scheduled a contrasting CT scan, and I received the latest results today. The initial part of the report indicated an "inadequate evaluation because of body size and streaking artifacts caused by patient contact with the scanner." According to the report, there is no evidence of splenomegaly or any concerning lesions, but they did mention an incidental finding of a splenule. I don’t recall coming into contact with the gantry and remained very still throughout the process. Since the first scan, I’ve been experiencing mild to occasionally intense pain in my upper left abdomen, along with low-grade fevers, nausea, and a decreased appetite. I have a follow-up appointment with my doctor scheduled for tomorrow. I’m curious about what potential treatment or diagnostic possibilities might be available. Could the detected splenule be the same anomaly noted in my previous scan? What inquiries should I make with my PCP during the visit? I’m more than willing to share additional details if that would be helpful. Thank you for your assistance!
Answers (1)
3/27/2025, 10:40:35 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for providing such detailed information about your situation. It sounds like you have a lot on your mind regarding the lesion on your spleen, the incidental finding of a splenule, and the symptoms you've been experiencing. I understand how concerning this can be, especially with the additional symptoms of pain, fever, nausea, and decreased appetite.
Main Points:
- You have a history of a small low-density lesion on your spleen and an incidental finding of a splenule.
- You’re experiencing concerning symptoms that warrant attention.
- Your follow-up appointment with your primary care physician (PCP) is important for clarifying your diagnosis and potential treatment options.
Explanation:
A splenule is a small accessory spleen that is usually harmless and may not require any treatment. However, the new symptoms you’re experiencing—mild to intense pain, low-grade fevers, nausea, and decreased appetite—are important to discuss with your PCP because they could indicate that something more serious is going on, such as an infection, inflammation, or another condition affecting your spleen or surrounding organs.
The fact that the CT scan was deemed indeterminate due to imaging artifacts can limit its reliability and accuracy in assessing the lesion’s nature. It’s valuable that you’re following up with your PCP, who will help clarify these findings and guide the next steps in your care.
Next Steps:
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Discuss Symptoms: Clearly communicate all of your current symptoms to your PCP. Mention the intensity and duration of your abdominal pain, the presence of fever, nausea, and any changes in your appetite.
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Inquire About the Findings:
- Ask specifically about the splenule and whether its presence could relate to your symptoms.
- Discuss the implications of the initial lesion and whether further imaging (perhaps with a different imaging technique) or blood tests are necessary for a clearer diagnosis.
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Diagnostic Options: Explore with your PCP the possibility of additional tests to evaluate your spleen, such as:
- An ultrasound, which might provide clearer images without the limitations of the CT due to body size.
- Blood tests to check for signs of infection, inflammation, or other abnormalities.
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Treatment Plan: Ask about possible treatment options if a diagnosis is made, including lifestyle modifications or medication options to manage symptoms.
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Follow-Up Plan: Ensure there is a follow-up plan in place to monitor any changes in your symptoms or condition.
It’s understandable to feel anxious about these findings, but remaining proactive in your healthcare and asking informed questions will help clarify your situation. Your symptoms deserve to be thoroughly assessed, and your PCP is there to help you navigate this next step. Please feel free to share additional details if necessary. Best of luck with your appointment tomorrow!
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