Our Summary

This study looked at the risk of COVID-19 infection and the subsequent need for hospitalization or risk of death in people who have had their spleen removed (a procedure known as splenectomy). The study compared individuals in Denmark who tested positive for COVID-19 with a group of controls (people who didn’t have the virus), matched by age, sex, and where they lived. The researchers found that people who have had their spleen removed don’t have a higher risk of catching COVID-19, but if they do catch the virus, they may have an increased risk of needing to go to the hospital or dying. This higher risk could be due to these patients having more health problems in general.

FAQs

  1. Does having a splenectomy increase the risk of contracting COVID-19?
  2. Are individuals who have had a splenectomy at a higher risk of hospitalization or death if they contract COVID-19?
  3. What could be the reason for the increased risk of hospitalization or death in individuals who have had a splenectomy and contract COVID-19?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give to a patient who has had a splenectomy is to stay up to date on recommended vaccinations, particularly those for infections that can affect individuals without a spleen. This is important for protecting against potentially serious infections, as the spleen plays a key role in the body’s immune response to certain pathogens. Additionally, it is important for patients to promptly seek medical attention if they develop symptoms of an infection, as they may be at higher risk for complications. Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are also important to monitor for any potential health concerns related to the splenectomy.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for splenectomy include those with:

  1. Hereditary spherocytosis
  2. Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)
  3. Thalassemia
  4. Sickle cell disease
  5. Hodgkin’s lymphoma
  6. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
  7. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
  8. Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
  9. Splenic abscess or rupture
  10. Hypersplenism

Timeline

Before splenectomy:

  1. Patient may experience symptoms or complications related to the underlying condition that necessitates splenectomy, such as an enlarged spleen, blood disorders, or certain cancers.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations, tests, and consultations with healthcare providers to assess their suitability for surgery.
  3. Patient receives education on the procedure, potential risks and benefits, and post-operative care.

After splenectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure to remove the spleen.
  2. Patient is monitored closely in the hospital for any complications or side effects of the surgery.
  3. Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and fatigue in the immediate post-operative period.
  4. Patient receives instructions on managing pain, wound care, and preventing infections post-surgery.
  5. Patient may be prescribed antibiotics or vaccinations to prevent infections, particularly those caused by encapsulated bacteria that the spleen normally helps to fight off.
  6. Patient may need to make lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding certain activities or foods that increase the risk of infection.
  7. Patient follows up with healthcare providers for ongoing monitoring and care to prevent potential long-term complications, such as infections or blood disorders.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about splenectomy in relation to COVID-19 risk include:

  1. What specific risks does having my spleen removed pose in terms of contracting and recovering from COVID-19?
  2. Are there any additional precautions I should take to reduce my risk of contracting COVID-19 given my medical history?
  3. What symptoms should I be aware of that may indicate I have contracted COVID-19, and when should I seek medical attention?
  4. Are there any additional vaccines or medications I should consider to protect myself from infections, including COVID-19, after splenectomy?
  5. How often should I follow up with my healthcare provider to monitor my overall health and risk factors for infections post-splenectomy?
  6. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take to help reduce my risk of infections, including COVID-19, after splenectomy?
  7. What steps can I take to boost my immune system and overall health to reduce my risk of infections, including COVID-19, after splenectomy?
  8. Are there any specific warning signs or symptoms that I should be aware of that may indicate a potential infection or complication post-splenectomy, including COVID-19?
  9. How does my individual health history and overall health status impact my risk of infections, including COVID-19, post-splenectomy?
  10. What resources or support services are available to me as a patient who has undergone splenectomy and may have an increased risk of infections, including COVID-19?

Reference

Authors: Bojesen AB, Lund A, Mortensen FV, Kirkegård J. Journal: Infect Dis (Lond). 2021 Sep;53(9):678-683. doi: 10.1080/23744235.2021.1921257. Epub 2021 May 3. PMID: 33939582