Inflammatory pseudotumors of the spleen
D. Safran, J. Welch and W. Rezuke
Department of Surgery, Hartford Hospital, CT 06115.
Inflammatory pseudotumors are uncommon benign lesions that have been found
in numerous organ systems. However, their appearance within the spleen is
decidedly rare. Grossly, pseudotumors appear as well-circumscribed,
encapsulated masses, while microscopic examination reveals a polymorphous
inflammatory cell infiltrate occurring variably with granulomatous
reaction, fibrosis, and cell necrosis. Because they often present either as
unexplained, asymptomatic masses or with vague constitutional symptoms,
splenic inflammatory pseudotumors can raise suspicion for a primary splenic
neoplasm, such as lymphoma. Splenectomy is the treatment of choice.
