Skip to main content
Update Location

My Location

Update your location to show providers, locations, and services closest to you.

Enter a zip code
Or
Select a campus/region
(352) 733-0111

Splenic infarction

Definition

Splenic infarction is the death of tissue (necrosis) in the spleen due to a blockage in blood flow.

Causes

Common causes of splenic infarction include:

  • Blood clots from the heart
  • Blood cancer, such as lymphoma or leukemia
  • Diseases in which the blood clots more easily, such as sickle cell disease
  • Inflammation of the pancreas or a mass in the pancreas pressing on the blood vessels to the spleen

Gallery

Red blood cells, target cells
These abnormal red blood cells (RBCs) resemble targets. These cells are seen in association with some forms of anemia, and following the removal of the spleen (splenectomy).

References

Connell NT, Shurin SB, Schiffman F. The spleen and its disorders. In: Hoffman R, Benz EJ, Silberstein LE, et al, eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 160.

Last reviewed September 19, 2021 by Debra G. Wechter, MD, FACS, General Surgery Practice Specializing in Breast Cancer, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team..

Related specialties

Our experts