Splenic opacification in homozygous sickle cell disease.

A prospective radiological and haematological study of 182 patients with homozygous sickle cell anaemia has been undertaken to assess the prevalence and pattern of splenic opacification and relate this to the blood indices. Opacification was observed in 31% of patients. In 55% of these, the pattern was punctate, whereas in 32% it was amorphous. A curvilinear appearance was seen in the remainder. In the amorphous group, a high percentage (72%), the spleen was severely contracted. The pattern of opacification and degree of contraction was related to age. The haematological indices indicate a lower haemolytic rate in patients with splenic opacification indicating a milder disease process with a greater persistence of the splenic capillary bed.