This booklet explains the risks of infection after splenectomy or with hyposplenia, and describes the support services offered by Spleen Australia. It covers the functions of the spleen, the conditions of asplenia and hyposplenia, and the signs and symptoms of infection. The document provides detailed guidance on vaccinations, daily and emergency antibiotics, animal bites, travel advice, and…
This patient information booklet from Spleen Australia is for people who have had their spleen removed or have a poorly functioning spleen, and for their families and friends. It explains the increased risk of severe bacterial infections and how the service helps reduce that risk through education, vaccination plans, and antibiotic recommendations.
The booklet begins with an introduction to Spleen Australia, a clinical service based at The Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, funded for Victoria, Tasmania, Queensland and Western Australia. It describes what the service provides, including telephone education sessions, a personalised vaccine and antibiotic plan, and a medical alert card.
It then explains the functions of the spleen in filtering blood, supporting the immune system, and storing blood cells. The conditions asplenia and hyposplenia are defined, along with common reasons for splenectomy such as injury, blood disorders, cancer, and congenital conditions.
The document details the risk of overwhelming post-splenectomy infection (OPSI) and lists the signs and symptoms of infection to watch for, including fever, chills, vomiting, confusion, and severe headache. An infection action plan advises when to see a GP, attend an emergency department, or call an ambulance.
Vaccination recommendations cover pneumococcal, meningococcal, Haemophilus influenzae type b, annual influenza, COVID-19, shingles, and RSV vaccines. The booklet also discusses daily antibiotic use, emergency antibiotic supplies, antibiotic allergies, dental care, and management of animal bites and scratches.
Travel advice includes a checklist for overseas trips, information on malaria and babesiosis risks, and guidance on preventing blood clots during long journeys. Separate sections cover children, a spleen health checklist, privacy and database security, and how to provide feedback.