Case report: splenic hamartoma with hematologic disorders

Abstract

Hamartomas of the spleen are rare benign tumors usually detected as asymptomatic, incidental findings at laparotomy or autopsy. By review of the literature, there are only 16 well-documented cases of symptomatic splenic hamartomas associated with hematologic disorders. The authors report on an additional case of splenic hamartoma in a 34-year-old man with thrombocytopenia. Findings by ultrasonography and computed tomography suggested multiple confluent splenic lesions. Because of progressively increasing thrombocytopenia, elective splenectomy was performed. Final pathology confirmed diagnosis of multiple hamartomas of the red pulp. Platelet count returned to normal within 1 month postoperatively. Differential diagnosis, diagnostic procedures, and pathologic findings of splenic hamartomas will be discussed. Hamartomas should be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis of splenic tumors. Splenectomy is indicated in cases where malignancy cannot be excluded and in cases of associated hematologic disorders.