I have stage 4 Primary Biliary Cirrhosis, with an enlarges spleen and gall stone in the gall bladder. My platelets are 34,000. It is believed that the spleen is serquestering the platelets. If it is removed will it cause any problems with the Liver?

I am truly sorry to hear about your serious medical condition.

Your attending physician is the best person to explain the risks and prognosis of a splenectomy, which is the surgical removal of the spleen.

I found some information for you on the website, MedicineNet.com. According to Dennis Lee, M.D., "The filtration of blood by an enlarged spleen usually results in  only mild reductions of red blood cells. white blood cells and platelets that do not require treatment.

Severe anemia may require blood transfusions...If the numbers of white blood cells are severely reduced, another hormone called granulocyte-colony stimulating factor is available to increase the numbers of white blood cells. No approved medication is available yet to increase the number of platelets."

"If a low number of platelets is associated with significant bleeding, transfusions of platelets usually should be given.Surgical removal of the spleen should be avoided, if possible because of the risk of excessive bleeding during the operation and the risk of anesthesia in advanced liver disease."

I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers,

Maryann