Hyposplenism/splenectomy

• What is hyposplenism?

  Decreased function of the spleen
• What is a splenectomy?

  Surgical removal of the spleen
• What are patients with hyposplenism or post-splenectomy at an increased risk of?

  Overwhelming post-splenectomy infections
• What are OPSI often caused by?

  Encapsulated bacteria e.g. strep pneumoniae
• What blood tests can be used to diagnose hyposplenism and what may they show?

  Peripheral blood smear - Howell-Jolly bodies, target cells and Pappenheimer bodies
• How is OPSI avoided?

  Prophylactic antibiotics - ensure patients are full immunised against these organisms
• What are the aims for the management of hyposplenism?

  Prevent infections

  Manage thrombotic risks associated with splenectomy