Splenectomy
Splenectomy (removal of the spleen) is not so much a disorder of the spleen, it’s a result of disorders of the spleen which have necessitated its removal. The effect of this is to cause much increased susceptibility to infections by agents such as streptococcus pneumoniae, which may be overwhelming and cause rapid death. Many who have undergone splenectomy take continuous courses of anti streptococcus antibiotics such as penicillin or, for those who are allergic to penicillin, erythromycin. Anti pneumococcal vaccine should be offered, as should that against haemophilus influenzae. In some patients without a spleen the platelet count rises to levels that increase the risk of the development of blood clots. Small doses of aspirin or other antiplatelet agents may be of help.
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