An autosplenectomy (from 'auto-' self, '-splen-' spleen, '-ectomy' removal) occurs when a disease damages the spleen to such an extent that it is non-functioning and so equivalent to the spleen having been surgically removed (splenectomy) .

Causes

---

This may occur in sickle-cell disease and spherocytosis when abnormal red blood cells repeatedly block of small blood vessels, causing infarctionof parts of the spleen.

Consequences

---

Absence of effective splenic function (asplenia) is associated with increased risks of overwhelming post splenectomy infection. Protocols involving vaccination and prophylactic antibiotics can reduce these risks.

Immune system disorders | Hematology