Morphological Variations Of Spleen: A Cadaveric Study In South Indian Population

ABSTRACT

Background and aim: Spleen, a secondary lymphoid organ presents with wide variations in morphology. Size andweight of the spleen varies at different ages and different individuals and in the same individuals under differentconditions. Further, a good knowledge about the morphological variations is very important to the physiciansand surgeons for any pathological conditions of spleen. The aim of the present study was to find out themorphological variations of spleens particularly in the South Indian Population.Materials and methods: A properly embalmed 40 cadaveric spleens were selected for the present study. The studywas carried out in the Department of Anatomy, Rajah Muthiah Medical College,Annamalai University,AnnamalaiNagar, Chidambaram, Cuddalore district, TamilNadu. The data were collected and statistical analysis was done.Results: The present study observed many variations in shapes and sizes of the spleen.Conclusions: In healthy states the spleen is not palpable. However, enlargement of spleen (splenomegaly) thatoccurs in malaria, kalaazar, sarcoidosis and leukaemia it becomes palpable. The morphological variations ofspleen in the present study will be useful to the physicians and surgeons in the diagnosis and treatment ofvarious disorders of spleen.