What is the thickness threshold of the spleen when splenomegaly is present?

What is the thickness threshold of the spleen when splenomegaly is present?

• A. >3 cm
• B. >2 cm
• C. >5 cm
• D. >4 cm

Answer: (C)

Splenomegaly on ultrasound is defined by size criteria, with the spleen’s thickness being a quick practical measure in the transverse dimension. The normal spleen thickness is about 4 cm or less, so when the thickness exceeds 5 cm, it is considered enlarged. This 5 cm threshold helps distinguish true enlargement from normal variation, even when the spleen’s length (which has its own upper limit, around 12–13 cm) may still be within a typical range. The other options fall below the standard cutoff and would not reliably indicate enlargement.

Splenomegaly on ultrasound is defined by size criteria, with the spleen’s thickness being a quick practical measure in the transverse dimension. The normal spleen thickness is about 4 cm or less, so when the thickness exceeds 5 cm, it is considered enlarged. This 5 cm threshold helps distinguish true enlargement from normal variation, even when the spleen’s length (which has its own upper limit, around 12–13 cm) may still be within a typical range. The other options fall below the standard cutoff and would not reliably indicate enlargement.