A large gastric splenosis mimicking gastrointestinal stromal tumor: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Splenosis pertains to the phenomenon wherein a segment of the spleen undergoes detachment and becomes embedded in other anatomical regions subsequent to traumatic rupture or therapeutic resection, and then progressively establishing blood circulation to foster the regeneration of splenic tissue. Existing literature posits that splenosis predominantly manifests within the confines of the abdominal and pelvic cavities. The objective of the current study was to present an uncommon case involving the occurrence of splenosis within the gastric myometrium, thereby contributing to the current knowledge regarding splenosis. A 16-year-old female sought medical assistance owing to recurrent abdominal pain persisting for a duration of six months, and had a history of splenectomy two years prior. Gastroscopy, endoscopic ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) examination collectively identified a lesion in the submucosal prominence of the fundus of the stomach. Initial considerations based on imaging examinations leaned towards a gastrointestinal stromal tumor. Consequently, an endoscopic resection was undertaken. Remarkably, the pathological findings and histochemistry concurred with the alterations associated with ectopic spleen implantation, leading to a stable postoperative course. In conclusion, splenosis denotes the implantation of a segment of the spleen into extraneous anatomical sites, attributable to traumatic rupture or therapeutic resection. The preoperative diagnosis of splenosis can pose a challenge, potentially culminating in unnecessary radical clinical interventions. Therefore, the acquisition of a comprehensive medical history, with a particular focus on surgical and trauma events, emerges as pivotal for an accurate diagnosis. In light of novel diagnostic modalities, the non-invasive technology of nuclear medicine can efficaciously visualize ectopic splenic tissue, thereby averting superfluous surgical procedures. It is both feasible and imperative to implement individualized treatment strategies for patients afflicted with splenosis.