Spleen

Question 1

What are the two main parts of the spleen?

Answer 1

1. Head
2. Tail

Question 2

How is the head of the spleen identified in cats and dogs?

Answer 2

Only seen on VD. Should be seen in every cat and dog. Use the triad with the stomach and left kidney to identify it.

Question 3

What is the normal appearance of the tail of the spleen in dogs?

Answer 3

Seen anywhere between the liver and bladder. Normal for the tail of the spleen not to be seen on the lateral view.

Question 4

What indicates splenomegaly in cats?

Answer 4

If the tail of the spleen can be seen, indicates splenomegaly.
The tail of the spleen should not be seen in cats.

Question 5

How is splenomegaly assessed in dogs?

Answer 5

Subjectively. Normal size is variable on radiographs and US.

Question 6

What is the normal size of the spleen in cats, and how should it be assessed?

Answer 6

Less variable. If the tail is seen, assess it on US when the patient is unsedated. If the width is >12mm, then FNA to rule out neoplasia.

Question 7

What does splenomegaly indicate in dogs?

Answer 7

The spleen is subjectively only mildly enlarged. Usually normal for the patient, but check bloodwork and US spleen.

Question 8

When is splenomegaly indicated in cats?

Answer 8

When the spleen is seen on a lateral view. May be normal for the patient but should be checked on US.

Question 9

What are some causes of diffuse splenomegaly?

Answer 9

• Normal in some breeds (e.g., German Shepherd dog)
• Anaesthesia / sedation
• IMHA
• Neoplasia (e.g., lymphoma)

Question 10

What rare condition can cause severe splenomegaly?

Answer 10

Torsion