Post-splenectomy syndrome

Post-splenectomy syndrome is a group of symptoms and signs that often occur after surgery to remove the spleen (splenectomy).

These include:

• Destruction of red blood cells
• Increased risk of getting severe infections, especially with certain bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria meningitidis
• Thrombocytosis (increased platelet count, which can cause blood clots)

Possible Complications

Possible long-term medical problems include:

• Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis)
• Pulmonary hypertension (a disease affecting the blood vessels in your lungs)

Alternative Names

Splenectomy - post-surgery syndrome