Reduced Blood Flow
The Splenic vein [5] is responsible for passing blood out of the spleen and back into circulation. If there is a decrease in blood flow it would lead to congestion and enlargement of the spleen. Reduced blood flow can be triggered by some conditions like hypertension, and liver disease. When the liver cells are damaged, it normally prevents blood from circulation, leading to reduced blood flow and a backup in the vein system. This reduces the spleen’s ability to drain blood leading to congestion and enlargement. The spleen’s role in cleaning the blood leaves it vulnerable when there is any reduction in blood flow or congestion as a result of the disease.