Increased splenic density

Last revised by Mostafa Elfeky on 7 Aug 2023

Increased splenic density can be due to a number of processes. The density may be due to calcification (most common) or other compounds (iron, Thorotrast), and can be seen (often incidentally) on abdominal radiographs and CT. On CT the usual splenic attenuation is 35-55 HU or ~10 HU 6 lower than the liver.

Pathology

Etiology
Splenic calcification

See splenic calcification article for more information. 

Diffuse hyperdensity
Splenic capsule calcification

Deposition of calcium salts in on the surface of the spleen is associated with perisplenitis, secondary to peritonitis

Differential diagnosis

  • splenic artery
    • atherosclerosis of the splenic artery is very common, and may be discontinuous and partially overly the spleen 1
    • splenic artery aneurysms may have calcified walls 3

On plain radiograph, consider other causes of abdominal calcification:

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