Polysplenia syndrome: a review of the relationship with viscero-atrial situs and the spectrum of extra-cardiac anomalies

Surg Radiol Anat. 2013 Oct;35(8):647-53. doi: 10.1007/s00276-013-1100-x. Epub 2013 Mar 19.

Abstract

Polysplenia syndrome is classified as one of the situs ambiguous or heterotaxy syndromes and is classically termed left isomerism or bilateral left-sidedness. However, polysplenia is a controversial and complex entity with no fixed pathognomonic features but rather a broad spectrum of abnormalities. In many published case series, polysplenia was neither associated with viscero-atrial heterotaxy nor with duplication of left-sided structures. The relationship between polysplenia and viscero-atrial situs is not clear. Several recent case reports describe the association of polysplenia with situs inversus totalis or with pancreatic; venous and other anomalies or with several types of malignancy. This article provides the reader with a review of the literature as well as our own experience aiming at better understanding of the polysplenia syndrome, its relationship with viscero-atrial situs and the spectrum of associated extra-cardiac anomalies.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Digestive System Abnormalities
  • Female
  • Heterotaxy Syndrome / complications
  • Heterotaxy Syndrome / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Volvulus / congenital
  • Intestinal Volvulus / etiology
  • Middle Aged
  • Pancreas / abnormalities
  • Spleen / diagnostic imaging
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed

Supplementary concepts

  • Volvulus Of Midgut