A splenic infarct, in the abdominal ultrasound context, refers to an area of dead tissue within the spleen caused by an interruption of its blood supply. This critical condition often results from arterial occlusion due to embolism, thrombosis, or vasculitis, leading to acute pain in the left upper quadrant. On ultrasound, acute infarcts typically appear as hypoechoic, wedge-shaped lesions with a base against the capsule.
As the infarct progresses, the affected area may become more anechoic or develop complex echogenicity, reflecting liquefaction or necrosis. Doppler ultrasound is crucial for confirming the absence of blood flow within the lesion. Recognizing splenic infarcts via abdominal ultrasound is essential for timely diagnosis and management, helping to differentiate it from other abdominal pathologies and guide patient care.
