Splenic Cyst

Posted by stew201 @stew201, Jul 15, 2011

After having a CT scan with contrast for a post op mass, an unrelated 11cm cyst was found incidentally on my spleen. This finding has perplexed my primary physician and the hematologist that I was going to be referred to (I have an HMO). I am awaiting bloodwork to determine if the cyst is parasitic, but beyond that, I'm just told to take a wait and see approach if it's not parasitic. Does anyone have any experience with a splenic cyst? Isn't a mass that large on such a small organ dangerous?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Blood Cancers & Disorders Support Group.

@edwardschris

A 4 cm splenic cyst was found during a CT scan of my abdomen. The doctor didn't seem concerned, but I requested annual ultrasounds to make sure it wasn't growing. After several years, the doctor told me it wasn't necessary to do any additional follow ups. I'm concerned though, because I've heard it can be very dangerous for one of these cysts to rupture. Would be interested in knowing what your doctors say.

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I have a cyst that is measuring 1.5 down from 2.5. I'm having early satiety, bloating and what feels like spasms. Do you have any of these symptoms?

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I've talked with my PCP and he's not sure how to approach the issue. Says wait and watch but not too get hit in that area. With my symptoms of a bloated stomach and dull pain with more intense spasms I'm a bit concerned. Anyone have any similar symptoms?

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Hi, @kimboski -- sorry to hear about the bloating, early satiety and what feels like spasms with your splenic cyst. I can hear the concern in your "voice."

Hoping that @pinkpenguin76 @edwardschris @allisonjd will return and share whether they have experienced similar symptoms. @hopeful33250 may also have some insights .

@kimboski -- have you considered getting a second opinion?

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Hello @kimboski

I would like to echo Lisa's, @lisalucier comment that you consider getting a second opinion.

You do not mention having weight loss, but I was wondering if that is an issue as well, given the early satiety that you mentioned. If you are comfortable sharing more, can you share how this was diagnosed (such as an MRI, CT scan, etc.)? Was any lab work done?

I hope that you find some answers for this problem and that you begin to feel better. Please continue to share here on Connect. I look forward to hearing from you again.

Teresa

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@lisalucier

Hi, @kimboski -- sorry to hear about the bloating, early satiety and what feels like spasms with your splenic cyst. I can hear the concern in your "voice."

Hoping that @pinkpenguin76 @edwardschris @allisonjd will return and share whether they have experienced similar symptoms. @hopeful33250 may also have some insights .

@kimboski -- have you considered getting a second opinion?

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Yes I have considered a second opinion but have no idea what type physician I have no clue

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I went in for GERD workup. They saw something on my lung so sent me for a CT. The CT revealed a 2.5 cm cyst on my spleen and nothing on my lung.

Also, I experience dizziness, near syncope, and fatigue. I have weight gain even with early satiety.

The cyst measured 1.5 cm on my last scan. Is that a good sign or could it be leaking? Is that even possible?

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@lisalucier

Hi, @kimboski -- sorry to hear about the bloating, early satiety and what feels like spasms with your splenic cyst. I can hear the concern in your "voice."

Hoping that @pinkpenguin76 @edwardschris @allisonjd will return and share whether they have experienced similar symptoms. @hopeful33250 may also have some insights .

@kimboski -- have you considered getting a second opinion?

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@kimboski -- a general surgeon or a hematologist would be good options.

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Hello @kimboski

Lisa's suggestions for the type of doctor to see were good ones. I would also like to recommend that you get your second opinion from a large university medical center or a research facility like Mayo. Are any of these types of hospitals in your area? It might be helpful to be in a place where there are a lot of specialists who can oversee your problems and offer you suggestions for a diagnosis and treatment.

I'm glad that you keep posting. We all learn from each other and we are here to support and encourage you. I look forward to hearing from you again.

Teresa

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I’m hoping anyone can share suggestions on what I should do in my situation.
19 years ago as a child a large cyst was found on my spleen (it contained 1.5 liters of fluid) and was found when my family was noticing the left side of my abdomen was firm to the touch and protruded. I had surgery to remove the cyst laparoscopically at Children’s Hospital and had one or two follow up CT scans. They also found smaller cysts on my kidneys. As I got older though the recommended follow up ct scans didn’t happen. I’ve since had 2 children and led a very healthy life but I’ve recently been noticing strange sensations/spasms when I bend over or sit up in a way that my abdomen is compressed. They aren’t painful sensations but are certainly uncomfortable. My pcp didn’t seem concerned at all, though she did order a ultrasound but I haven’t scheduled it yet. I’m not convinced she would know what too look for. Do I need to see a specialist or just trust my pcp will know what to do? Do I need to try and get my medical records from Children’s Hospital? I feel a little lost having been treated for this as a child and now years later feeling concerned but not sure how to proceed.

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Hello @mamabear1416 and welcome to Mayo Connect.

I am glad that you are asking questions and seeking guidance. It is important to advocate for your own health needs and to seek out the best medical team to assist you.

You mention getting records from Children's Hospital where you had your first surgery, that would be a good idea.

Here is some general information from Mayo Clinic's website regarding the spleen, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/enlarged-spleen/symptoms-causes/syc-20354326. I encourage you to read this article and gain as much information as you can. As an educated patient, you can best advocate for yourself. There is information in this article about getting an appointment at Mayo Clinic (there are 3 locations, Minnesota, Florida and Arizona). They should be able to assist you with the right type of specialist. If you are not able to get to Mayo you might consider a large medical university in your area or other research-oriented hospital.

I hope to hear from you again and know what steps you are taking.

Teresa

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