Splenic abscess in a tropical zone.

Abscess of the spleen is uncommon. The reported incidence varies widely and early observations of an association with tropical fevers are no longer evident. The pathogenesis is ill-understood and diagnosis is difficult and usually late. A careful clinical examination combined with the recent utilization of (99)Technitium scanning and splenic arteriography now permit early diagnosis. Splenectomy is the treatment of choice.