D73: Diseases of spleen

D73.4: Cyst of spleen

The spleen is on the top left side of the abdomen. Old blood cells are broken down in the spleen. Furthermore, defense cells are stored. If the defense cells are needed, they are then released from the spleen into the blood.

The cavity can be caused by inflammation or injury to the spleen, for example. It is surrounded by a thin membrane and contains fluid. It is possible for there to be several such holes. A small cavity does not usually cause any symptoms. If it is very large, then it can press on the surrounding organs. This leads to discomfort in the abdomen.