The evaluation of a spleen injury begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in someone with a spleen injury may include:

• Tenderness in the left upper abdomen
• Rapid heart rate
• Excessive sweating
• Low blood pressure
• Pale skin
• Chest bruise:
• Over the left chest
• Abdominal bruise:
• Over the left upper abdomen
• Back bruise:
• To the left of the spine in the lower back

Tests are necessary to make the diagnosis of a spleen injury.

Tests that may be used to evaluate a spleen injury include:

• Complete blood count
• Serum amylase
• Serum lipase
• Liver profile
• Kidney profile
• Urinalysis
• CT scan of the abdomen
• Ultrasound of the abdomen
• Chest x-ray

For more information:

• Abdominal contusion evaluation
• Bladder injury evaluation
• Kidney injury evaluation
• Liver injury evaluation