Examination of the Spleen - Clinical Examination

The spleen is located within the intraperitoneal space and is well-protected under the left costal margin. Its long axis is roughly parallel to the 10th rib. The spleen is generally not palpable in healthy adults. A pathologically enlarged spleen is palpated under the left costal margin during inspiration as the inferior edge descends to the examiner’s fingertips. If an enlarged spleen is already suspected, palpation should begin further down. The examination may be facilitated by gently lifting the left flank of the patient ventrally.

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