Abstract

Background and aim: Spleen, a secondary lymphoid organ presents with wide variations in morphology. Size and weight of the spleen varies at different ages and different individuals and in the same individuals under different conditions. Further, a good knowledge about the morphological variations is very important to the physicians and surgeons for any pathological conditions of spleen. The aim of the present study was to find out the morphological variations of spleens particularly in the South Indian Population. Materials and methods: A properly embalmed 40 cadaveric spleens were selected for the present study. The study was carried out in the Department of Anatomy, Rajah Muthiah Medical College,Annamalai University,Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram, Cuddalore district, TamilNadu. The data were collected and statistical analysis was done. Results: The present study observed many variations in shapes and sizes of the spleen. Conclusions: In healthy states the spleen is not palpable. However, enlargement of spleen (splenomegaly) that occurs in malaria, kalaazar, sarcoidosis and leukaemia it becomes palpable. The morphological variations of spleen in the present study will be useful to the physicians and surgeons in the diagnosis and treatment of various disorders of spleen.

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