Hypersplenism
Hypersplenism means over activity of the spleen: it degrades too many white cells, platelets and red blood cells. This happens as a consequence of any of the disorders that cause the spleen to enlarge (see splenomegaly in disorders of the spleen) but it may occur in the absence of splenic enlargement, when the cause is unknown. If the effects are pronounced removal of the spleen may be the only solution - as, for example, in the treatment of immune thrombocytopenia purpura (see blood and circulation in the chest cavity section). While in the early stages treatment with steroids may be effective, when they are withdrawn the condition often relapses.
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