It is estimated that up to 25,000 Australians are affected by asplenia or hyposplenism.1 Many are unaware of the fact, and its potential consequences.
The spleen plays an important role in immune function, in particular the prevention of infection due to some specific organisms (Table 1).
Infection is a relatively common occurrence in those without a functioning spleen. Overwhelming post-splenectomy infection (OPSI), occurs in up to 5% of asplenic patients and has a mortality rate of over 50%. The risk is particularly high in children aged under five, and in the first three years post-splenectomy. However, the risk is lifelong.1
Listen to expert interviews.
Click to open in a new tab
Browse the latest articles from Healthed.
You have completed the Educational Activities (EA) component of this activity.
Select ‘Confirm & claim CPD‘ to confirm you have engaged with this activity in its entirety and claim your CPD.
You will be taken to explore further CPD learning available to you.
