Which department should I visit for splenic nodules?

Oct 31, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Spleen nodules can be evaluated in departments such as hepatobiliary surgery, general surgery, hematology, oncology, or radiology, depending on the suspected nature of the nodule and associated symptoms. If the nodule grows rapidly or is accompanied by abdominal pain or sudden weight loss, immediate medical attention is recommended. The hepatobiliary surgery department specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of abdominal organs, including the liver and spleen.

Splenic nodules can be evaluated in departments such as hepatobiliary surgery, general surgery, hematology, oncology, or radiology, depending on the suspected nature of the nodule and associated symptoms. Immediate medical attention is required if the nodule grows rapidly or is accompanied by abdominal pain or sudden weight loss.

1. Hepatobiliary Surgery: Specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of abdominal organs including the liver and spleen. This department evaluates the size and morphology of splenic nodules using ultrasound, CT, and other imaging modalities to determine whether they are benign proliferations or cysts. Surgical removal may be performed when necessary, making it suitable for patients with splenic nodules without hematologic symptoms.

2. General Surgery: Manages various common types of splenic nodules. Through physical examination and imaging studies, the basic characteristics of the nodule can be determined. For nodules requiring biopsy to confirm their nature or those that are mildly benign, the department may recommend observation or provide basic treatment, serving as an appropriate option for initial evaluation when access to specialized care is limited.

3. Hematology: If splenic nodules are accompanied by abnormal blood counts, anemia, or bleeding tendencies, and a hematologic disorder such as lymphoma or leukemia involving the spleen is suspected, diagnostic procedures like bone marrow aspiration can help identify the underlying cause and guide targeted therapy.

4. Oncology: For suspected malignant splenic nodules—such as metastatic tumors or primary malignant tumors of the spleen—this department assesses disease status using tumor marker tests and contrast-enhanced CT scans. It develops treatment plans involving chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, or surgery, and monitors the progression of the nodule.

5. Radiology: Although not directly involved in treatment, radiology plays a critical role by accurately determining the nature, blood supply, and anatomical relationship of splenic nodules to surrounding tissues through imaging techniques such as ultrasound, MRI, and PET-CT. These findings provide essential diagnostic information for clinical departments and assist in formulating treatment strategies.

In daily life, patients should avoid strenuous exercise to prevent abdominal trauma, maintain regular作息 (sleep-wake cycles), follow a balanced diet rich in high-quality protein and vitamins, undergo regular imaging follow-ups to monitor changes in the nodule, and seek prompt medical care if symptoms such as abdominal pain or fatigue occur.