Splenic hamartoma associated with abdominal discomfort and pain. Case report

Hamartomas are benign splenic neoplasms asymptomatic in most of the cases. Symptoms, when present, may either be related to the growth of the mass with abdominal discomfort and pain or be related to a hypersplenism syndrome. Certain preoperative diagnosis cannot be made with current diagnostic imaging. Splenectomy is therefore indicated in order to obtain histological diagnosis, rule out malignancy or achieve regression of symptoms. We report the case of a 39-year-old woman referred for a splenic hamartoma causing pain located on the upper abdominal quadrant. She underwent splenectomy through a left subcostal access followed by complete resolution of symptoms. Resection of splenic masses is indicated to complete diagnosis, achieve cure and, when present, relieve symptoms.