Functional hyposplenism, a diagnostic clue in amyloidosis. Report of six cases.

Six cases of functional hyposplenism associated with amyloidosis are presented. This association has been infrequently reported. Typical erythrocytic changes were found at initial presentation in five patients, and provided an early clue to the correct diagnosis. Extensive amyloid effacement of the splenic cords was the anatomic basis of the functional hyposplenism. Comments are made on the etiology and infective consequences of adult-acquired functional hyposplenism. A more sensitive method of screening peripheral blood for changes of functional hyposplenism is discussed.