Question

What should I do if a few-month-old baby has a large stomach?

Answer

A large stomach in a baby is common, as the abdominal cavity is relatively small, making the stomach appear larger. If you’re concerned about your baby’s stomach being abnormal, it’s advisable to take them to the hospital for a check-up. After examination, it was found that the baby only had a small accessory spleen, with everything else being normal. The accessory spleen usually does not present with any specific symptoms and does not require special treatment. Accessory spleens are found in about 5% to 10% of the general population and are typically smaller than the spleen, located near the hilum of the spleen. Sometimes, they are connected to the spleen by thin strips or small bridges. In some cases, the accessory spleen is further away from the spleen, located below the pancreas and liver, or near the ovaries or scrotum, which is also known as an external spleen. Sometimes, individuals have two spleens. If there are no symptoms associated with the accessory spleen, there is no need for intervention. Surgery may be necessary only in cases of secondary neuronal intestinal obstruction, accessory spleen torsion, or rupture with leakage.