The spleen is an organ on the left side of the body, near the stomach. CLL cells can collect in the spleen, causing it to become enlarged. Sometimes, the spleen becomes so large that it presses on nearby organs, causing pain. Also, an enlarged spleen may lower a person’s blood cell counts to dangerous levels. An operation to remove the spleen is called a splenectomy. Splenectomy is helpful for select patients. The operation may reduce pain and help improve blood counts.
Related Links
- Download or order The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's free booklet, Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia.