Abstract:
Hypersplenism is defined as a peripheral cytopenia caused by a secondary splenomegaly. The enlargement of the spleen leads both to a increased cell destruction and to sequestration of blood cells.
Clinical Picture:
The clinical picture is usually characterized by the underlying disease (e.g. hepatic cirrhosis) which is the cause of the splenomegaly. However, anemia, leukopenia and/or thrombocytopenia can lead to symptoms like exercise intolerance and hemorrhaging.
Hematology:
Anemia, leukopenia and/or thrombocytopenia may be present. A moderately raised reticulocyte count and polychromasia are an indication of a compensatory increase of erythropoiesis.