Curious About a 14mm Lesion on My Spleen
I don’t mean to stress myself out, but I can’t help but wonder about the significance of a new finding since my latest scan. Honestly, I'd almost forgotten about my spleen until this recent development came up. I’m seeking insights regarding my doctors’ interpretation of the scan results mentioned below: (Any personal details related to me or the healthcare team have been omitted) M24, EXAMINATION: Abdominal Ultrasound. REASON FOR EXAM: Slightly elevated liver function tests and ongoing pain in the upper abdomen. Possible non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or another underlying cause. Previous ultrasound conducted in 2021. The scan was somewhat limited due to gas in the intestines. Notably, a new lesion measuring 14mm was detected in the lower lateral section of the spleen. This lesion is hypoechoic, well-defined, and solid with no blood flow identified, indicating uncertain pathology. The liver appears normal in size and shape, but shows signs consistent with fatty infiltration. The blood flow in the visible portal vein is normal. The gallbladder, which is seen partially, has normal thin walls with no stones present. There’s no noticeable enlargement of the intrahepatic bile ducts. Both kidneys look healthy. The pancreas is obscured by gas from the intestines. No free fluid in the abdominal cavity is noted. CONCLUSION: A solitary splenic lesion that remains indeterminate on ultrasound. If symptoms persist in the left upper quadrant, a referral for an MRI is recommended. And yes, it seems I have quite the tendency towards gas!
Answers (1)
6/29/2025, 2:10:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely normal to feel concerned about unexpected findings on a medical scan, especially when they involve something you don’t usually think about, like your spleen. A 14mm lesion on the spleen can arise from various causes, and the interpretation of the scan is crucial for understanding its significance.
Understanding Your Situation:
- Lesion Characteristics: The lesion being hypoechoic (darker on ultrasound) and well-defined without blood flow suggests it may not be a malignant tumor, but it's important to determine its nature.
- Context of Symptoms: The ultrasound was prompted by elevated liver function tests and abdominal pain. It’s essential for any lesions to be correlated with symptoms you’re experiencing to assess their relevance.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, particularly in your left upper abdomen. Notate the intensity, frequency, and any new symptoms (like changes in pain or discomfort).
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Follow the Recommendation: Given that your ultrasound report suggests a potential referral for further imaging (MRI), it might be beneficial to discuss this with your healthcare provider, especially if symptoms persist. An MRI could provide a clearer picture of the lesion.
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Lifestyle Adjustments: Since you mentioned a propensity for gas, consider dietary changes that might help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. This could include:
- Limiting carbonated beverages.
- Eating smaller meals more frequently.
- Avoiding foods that are known to cause gas (beans, certain vegetables, etc.).
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Stay Informed but Not Overwhelmed: Researching your condition is natural, but avoid excessive worrying. Many lesions can be benign. Understanding that the next steps can clarify concerns can be reassuring.
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Focus on General Health: Continue to maintain your overall health with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate hydration, which can also support liver health.
If you have any increased concerns or notice significant changes in your symptoms, prioritize seeking professional advice sooner rather than later. Remember, you are not alone in this, and many patients have questions similar to yours—that’s why we ask questions and seek clarity.
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