Splenomegaly in Grand Rapids, MI: Understanding an Enlarged Spleen

Splenomegaly means enlargement of the spleen. In Grand Rapids and across West Michigan, this condition is commonly discovered during a routine physical exam or imaging test done for another reason.

The spleen sits high on the left side of your abdomen, just under the rib cage. It acts like two organs in one because it:

  • Filters the blood and removes abnormal cells, such as old or defective red blood cells and platelets
  • Supports the immune system by producing disease‑fighting white blood cells (lymphocytes) and antibodies

In a healthy adult, the spleen typically weighs about 200 grams. With splenomegaly, it can enlarge dramatically, sometimes reaching 2 kilograms or more.

In Grand Rapids, splenomegaly is often evaluated by specialists at major health systems such as Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health), Trinity Health Grand Rapids, University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health), and Mercy Health.

What Causes Splenomegaly?

Many different medical conditions can cause the spleen to become enlarged. Any disease that leads to rapid breakdown of blood cells or overstimulation of the immune system can put extra strain on the spleen.

Common causes of splenomegaly include:

Blood and Immune System Disorders

  • Hemolytic anemias
    Conditions where red blood cells are destroyed faster than they are made. This forces the spleen to work harder to clear damaged cells, causing it to enlarge.

  • Leukemia
    Cancers of the blood‑forming tissues (bone marrow and lymphatic system) can cause abnormal blood cells to build up in the spleen.

  • Lymphoma (including Hodgkin’s disease and non‑Hodgkin lymphoma)
    Cancers of the lymphatic system often involve the spleen and nearby lymph nodes.

Liver and Circulation Problems

  • Cirrhosis of the liver
    Scarring of the liver (often related to alcohol use, hepatitis, or fatty liver disease) can increase pressure in the veins that drain into the spleen, leading to portal hypertension and splenic enlargement.
    Liver disease and alcohol‑related conditions are important concerns in Michigan and are regularly evaluated in Grand Rapids liver and GI clinics.

Infections

  • Infectious mononucleosis (“mono” or glandular fever)
    A common viral infection caused by the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). It often affects teens and young adults and can cause:

    • Fatigue
    • Sore throat
    • Swollen lymph nodes
    • Fever
    • Enlarged spleen

  • Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
    A viral infection that can cause flu‑like symptoms and splenomegaly, especially in people with weakened immune systems.

  • Malaria
    A mosquito‑borne infection that can cause a significantly enlarged spleen. While malaria is not native to Michigan, it can affect travelers returning to Grand Rapids from endemic regions.

Genetic and Systemic Conditions

  • Cystic fibrosis
    A genetic disorder that causes thick mucus to build up in the lungs and pancreas. It can lead to liver disease and portal hypertension, indirectly causing splenomegaly.

  • Other inflammatory or autoimmune diseases
    Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or sarcoidosis can involve the spleen and cause it to enlarge.

Symptoms of Splenomegaly

Some people in Grand Rapids with splenomegaly have no symptoms and only learn about it during an exam or imaging test. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

  • A feeling of fullness or discomfort in the upper left abdomen, sometimes spreading to the left shoulder
  • Pain or tenderness under the left rib cage
  • Feeling full quickly when eating (because an enlarged spleen can press on the stomach)
  • Fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath (often related to anemia)
  • Frequent infections (due to changes in immune function)
  • Easy bruising or bleeding (if the spleen is removing too many platelets)

Because West Michigan experiences long, cold winters, symptoms like fatigue or mild abdominal discomfort can sometimes be overlooked or mistaken for seasonal issues. If you notice persistent upper left abdominal pain or fullness, it’s important to talk with a Grand Rapids healthcare provider.

How Splenomegaly Is Diagnosed in Grand Rapids

Diagnosing an enlarged spleen usually begins with a visit to your primary care provider or a local urgent care clinic. In Grand Rapids, this may be through Corewell Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, Mercy Health, or a community clinic supported by the Kent County Health Department.

Common steps in diagnosis include:

1. Medical History and Physical Examination

  • Your provider will ask about:
    • Recent infections (such as mono)
    • Travel history (especially to areas where malaria is common)
    • Alcohol use and liver disease risk
    • Family history of blood disorders or genetic conditions
  • During the physical exam, the provider may:
    • Palpate (feel) your abdomen to check if the spleen is enlarged and can be felt below the left rib cage

2. Blood Tests

Blood work helps identify underlying causes:

  • Complete blood count (CBC) to check red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets
  • Liver function tests to look for cirrhosis or other liver problems
  • Viral tests (such as EBV for mononucleosis or CMV)
  • Additional tests if leukemia, lymphoma, or hemolytic anemia is suspected

3. Imaging Tests

Imaging helps confirm the size of the spleen and look for other abdominal issues:

  • Ultrasound of the abdomen – a common, non‑invasive first test
  • CT (computed tomography) scan of the abdomen
  • Abdominal X‑ray (less commonly used, but can show very large spleens or related issues)

These tests are widely available at hospitals and imaging centers throughout Grand Rapids and the surrounding West Michigan region.

Treatment for Splenomegaly

Treatment in Grand Rapids focuses on the underlying cause of the enlarged spleen. The goal is to reduce spleen size when possible, prevent complications, and manage symptoms.

Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:

Managing Infections

  • Viral infections (like mono or CMV)
    Often managed with rest, fluids, and symptom control. The spleen usually returns to normal size over time.

  • Malaria or other specific infections
    Treated with targeted medications (such as antimalarial drugs) if applicable.

Treating Blood Cancers and Blood Disorders

  • Leukemia, lymphoma, and Hodgkin’s disease
    May be treated with:

    • Chemotherapy
    • Radiation therapy
    • Targeted or immunotherapy, depending on the specific diagnosis
      These treatments are typically coordinated with hematology/oncology specialists at Grand Rapids cancer centers.

  • Hemolytic anemias and thalassemia
    Management may include:

    • Regular blood transfusions
    • Medications to reduce red blood cell destruction
    • Monitoring and specialized care from a hematologist

Treating Liver Disease and Portal Hypertension

  • Cirrhosis and liver disease
    Treatment may involve:
    • Avoiding alcohol
    • Managing hepatitis or fatty liver disease
    • Medications and dietary changes
    • Procedures to reduce portal hypertension in advanced cases

Grand Rapids residents often receive liver care through hospital‑based GI and hepatology clinics, with support from local public health programs for alcohol and viral hepatitis screening.

Activity Restrictions and Spleen Protection

An enlarged spleen is more fragile and at higher risk of rupture. This is especially important in a community like Grand Rapids, where many people are active in winter sports (skiing, snowboarding, hockey) and summer activities (soccer, biking, boating).

If you have splenomegaly, your provider will usually recommend:

  • Avoiding contact sports such as football, hockey, martial arts, and rugby
  • Avoiding activities with a high risk of falls or hard impacts to the abdomen
  • Being cautious with any activity that could cause a blow to the left side of your abdomen

A sudden blow, car accident, or even very forceful abdominal exam can cause the spleen’s outer capsule to rupture, leading to internal bleeding. This is a medical emergency.

Ruptured Spleen and Splenectomy (Spleen Removal)

If the spleen ruptures or is severely damaged, emergency surgery may be needed.

Ruptured Spleen

Signs can include:

  • Sudden, severe pain in the upper left abdomen or left shoulder
  • Dizziness, fainting, or rapid heart rate
  • Signs of shock (pale, clammy skin, confusion)

If you suspect a ruptured spleen, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department in Grand Rapids immediately.

Splenectomy (Surgical Removal of the Spleen)

In some cases, surgery is required to:

  • Remove a ruptured spleen
  • Treat certain blood disorders or cancers
  • Remove only the diseased portion of the spleen, leaving some healthy tissue if possible

Even though the spleen has many important functions, most people can live without it. However, they may have:

  • An increased risk of infections, especially from certain bacteria
  • Changes in how their blood cells appear on lab tests

Because of the infection risk, people who have had a splenectomy usually need:

  • Vaccinations (for example, against pneumococcus, meningococcus, and Haemophilus influenzae type b)
  • Sometimes preventive antibiotics before certain procedures or when traveling

These preventive steps are typically coordinated through primary care and infectious disease specialists in Grand Rapids.

Living With Splenomegaly in Grand Rapids

If you have splenomegaly:

  • Follow up regularly with your healthcare provider
  • Report new symptoms such as:
    • Worsening abdominal pain
    • Fevers or frequent infections
    • Easy bruising or bleeding
  • Ask about vaccines, especially if your spleen is not working well or has been removed
  • Discuss safe activity levels and sports participation

Because Michigan’s climate involves cold winters and long indoor seasons, respiratory infections and viral illnesses can be more common. Protecting your immune system and staying up to date on vaccinations is especially important if you have spleen problems.

Where to Get Help for Splenomegaly in Grand Rapids, MI

If you think you may have an enlarged spleen or have been told you have splenomegaly, you can seek care at:

  • Your primary care provider (PCP) or family doctor
  • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health) – Grand Rapids
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
  • University of Michigan Health–West (Metro Health)
  • Mercy Health clinics and hospitals
  • Community clinics and programs supported by the Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health

If you have sudden, severe left‑sided abdominal pain, especially after an injury, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.

Key Points About Splenomegaly

  • Splenomegaly means an enlarged spleen; a normal spleen weighs about 200 g but may grow to 2 kg or more.
  • Common causes include infections (like mono), liver disease (cirrhosis), blood cancers (leukemia, lymphoma), hemolytic anemias, and genetic or inflammatory conditions.
  • Symptoms can include fullness or pain in the upper left abdomen, early fullness when eating, fatigue, frequent infections, and easy bruising or bleeding, though some people have no symptoms.
  • Diagnosis in Grand Rapids typically involves a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging (ultrasound or CT scan).
  • Treatment focuses on the underlying cause, with options such as medications, chemotherapy, radiation, blood transfusions, and sometimes surgery (splenectomy).
  • An enlarged spleen is fragile and can rupture, so contact sports and high‑impact activities should be avoided.
  • People without a spleen, or with a poorly functioning spleen, need extra infection prevention, including vaccinations and close medical follow‑up.