[Prevention of severe infections in asplenic patients]

Abstract

The lifetime risk of dying from sepsis is approximately 2-3% in persons with (functional) asplenia. Both patients and their physicians are not always fully aware of these risks and the implementation of preventive measures is insufficient. Physicians should inform both patients and colleagues on the consequences of lost splenic function. Primary care physicians should screen their lists for patients with (functional) asplenia and offer these patient adequate preventive measures when needed.