Diagnosis of thoracic splenosis by tru-cut needle biopsy.

Abstract

We present a case of thoracic splenosis diagnosed by tru-cut needle biopsy, which yielded histologically normal splenic tissue. This is the first report of a diagnosis of thoracic splenosis by needle biopsy. The patient had a history characteristic of thoracic splenosis. Autotransplanted splenic tissue functions and may provide some defense against serious infections. A conservative approach to diagnosis offers the advantages of preserving splenic tissue and avoiding thoracotomy.