American Board of Pathology (ABPath) Practice Test 2026 - Free Pathology Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

An accessory spleen, also known as splenunculus, commonly develops near the main spleen and is most often found at the medial border of the spleen. This location is favorable due to the embryological development of the spleen, where multiple splenic tissue nodules can exist and remain connected to the primary spleen.

The presence of an accessory spleen is an important consideration in clinical practice, particularly when planning for surgical interventions, imaging studies, or evaluating hematologic conditions. Understanding the typical location helps in accurately identifying these structures during imaging or during surgical exploration, allowing for more informed clinical decision-making.

Accessory spleens can occur in other locations as well, but their most frequent site is indeed along the medial border of the spleen. This knowledge aids pathologists and clinicians in recognizing and interpreting findings associated with splenic tissue abnormalities.