Benign Tumors of the Spleen

Primary benign splenic tumors are uncommon and manifest with variable presenting signs and symptoms yet are frequently asymptomatic and discovered incidentally. Primary benign tumors involving the spleen can be broadly categorized as vascular/lymphatic tumors, tumorlike lesions, and cystic tumors. Although laboratory tests have little impact on the diagnosis of benign tumors of the spleen, radiologic imaging is mandatory and may narrow the differential diagnoses. However, it is often difficult to distinguish benign from malignant disease. Surgical management is based on the clinical presentation of the patient, disease etiology, and suspicion for malignancy. Surgical options include complete and partial splenectomy, andthe laparoscopic approach is favored. This review contains 6 figures, 6 tables and 66 references Key words: cystic, mass, spleen, splenectomy, tumor, tumorlike, vascular neoplasm