which is generally considered the 'safe to resume normal . If youre not sure what you can safely eat while your spleen is healing, ask your doctor. You see your doctor for reevaluation in 6 to 12 months or sooner if you develop symptoms. Enlarged spleens are not normal and if a Dr is telling you not to worry about it then you need to look for another Dr wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Can an enlarged spleen go back to normal size? Splenomegaly greater than 1000 gm (2 lb 3.3 oz) or longer than 20 cm (8 inches) is considered severe or massive. In extreme cases, your spleen may rupture, causing sharp, sudden pain in the left side of your upper abdomen. What foods to avoid if you have an enlarged spleen? X How do you check your spleen at home? wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Caglar V, et al. Finally, be sure to keep your vaccinations up to date because your risk of infection is increased. While it cannot be cured, it is treated with a combination of medication, airway clearing techniques, and surgical interventions. It is a good idea to eat only small portions of whatever you want early in the day so that you are as full as possible. Lab Tests Online. For boys and girls, there is relatively little difference in size, according to a study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology. Your doctor might recommend surgery to remove your spleen (splenectomy) for diagnostic purposes when there's no identifiable cause for the enlargement. The spleen is sensitive to erratic eating habits and can be weakened by skipping breakfast, copious or late dinners, and snacking. The spleen is an important organ in the immune system. Depending upon the cause, the enlarged spleen may return to normal size and function when the underlying disease is treated or resolved. Can an enlarged spleen go back to normal size? Can an enlarged spleen go back to normal? Certain measures can be taken to prevent HIV, malaria, tuberculosis, and anaplasmosis. The main symptom of a ruptured spleen is severe pain in the abdomen, especially on the left side. (12.0 cm) for girls, 5.1 in. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. In very serious cases of spleen dysfunction, the organ can be . The size of a normal, healthy spleen can vary considerably from person to person. If the infection that causes your enlarged spleen is caused by bacteria, antibiotics may help. I have a small spleen. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Another cause of splenic pain is enlargement or splenomegaly of the spleen. Occasionally we discover these prior to a bleeding event or the bleeding event is minor and the dog does require a blood transfusion, so the treatment cost can be as low as . Other causes include liver and autoimmune diseases and some kinds of cancer such as leukemia and lymphoma. Yoga has actually been a well known treatment option for an enlarged spleen for thousands of years 2. Can a dogs enlarged heart go back to normal? An enlarged spleen is not normal and occurs because of another underlying disease. The issue is the pathology that is causing the spleen to enlarge. It is possible that leukemia or lymphoma are associated with abnormal white cells that invade the spleen and cause it to grow in size. A spleen weighing up to 500 grams (1.1 pounds) or between 11 to 20 cm (4.3 to 8 inches) in its longest dimension is considered enlarged. Depending upon the cause, the enlarged spleen may return to normal size and function when the underlying disease is treated or resolved. This article has been viewed 49,244 times. Mayo Clinic; 2021. I go all out. Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. The spleen can become enlarged for a majority of reasons, including bacterial infections, blood clots, liver disease and can even cause the organ to become permanently damaged, resulting in serious injury 2. In very serious cases of spleen dysfunction, the organ can be removed. In general, an adult spleen is about 5 inches long, 3 inches wide, 1.5 inches thick, and weighs about 6 ounces. What size is considered splenomegaly? What Is the Prognosis for Enlarged Spleen? https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/hematology-and-oncology/spleen-disorders/splenomegaly#. An x-ray of the abdomen done for other reasons may also show that the spleen is enlarged. It is treated by stopping behaviors that caused the damage, taking medication to control discomfort, and, in some cases, transplanting the liver. Rheumatoid arthritis. The spleen can become enlarged due to a variety of illnesses and infections. The spleen can also filter out certain bacteria or viruses from your blood in support of the bodys immune system. This site is for people diagnosed with CLL, (chronic lymphocytic Leukaemia) sndpffcl1 and despite your very slightly enlarged spleen and liver, it sounds like your blood results including liver function tests are within normal limits. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. An enlarged spleen usually doesn't cause symptoms. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. In some circumstances, removing the spleen is part of the treatment, but it can make the person much more susceptible to infections. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Adequate rest allows the body time to heal and repair itself, which might be exactly what your spleen needs to return to normal size. Commonly, in infectious mononucleosis, the spleen returns to normal as the infection gets better. Most of these dogs can live for around six months, just by removing the spleen and without any further follow-up treatment. Please read our fulldisclosure pageto learn more about it. Milk thistle is important to the body because it works to protect and detoxify liver cells that may have been damaged 1. (13.0 cm) for boys. Gentle activities, such as walking or swimming, are actually great to do. Medline Plus. Public healthcare system of the UK The size of a normal, healthy spleen can vary considerably from person to person. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. What Is the Prognosis for Enlarged Spleen? Our posts may contain affiliate links and we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to the buyer for products purchased through the links on our site or other applicable pages. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Your doctor can often feel it by gently examining your left upper belly. You may also be able to reduce the risk of developing conditions associated with an enlarged spleen by replacing processed and sugary foods with foods that are lower in sugar. Having timely vaccinations can generally help you avoid serious illness and it can protect your spleen from further damage. Doctors found my spleen to be mildly enlarged early January. Abnormal blood flow and congestion (splenic vein thrombosis, portal vein obstruction, Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). That means at least an annual flu shot, and a tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis booster every 10 years. Learn about the spleen, its functions in the body, and potential health concerns. Can an enlarged spleen shrink back? She received her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of Tennessee in 2006. If you have a serious medical problem, your doctor may advise you to have your spleen removed. The spleen helps to filter and maintain healthy red and white blood cells and platelets and also plays a role in the function of the immune system. Common causes of enlarged spleen include: liver disease (cirrhosis), cancers of the blood or bone (such as lymphoma, leukemia, polycythemia vera, and thrombocythemia). Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press. Get The Best Sleep With The Original Teghnogel Pillow! The release of stem cells from the bone marrow to the spleen appears to increase as stress increases, and monocytes, or white blood cells, rapidly grow in the body. Depending upon the cause, the enlarged spleen may return to normal size and function when the underlying disease is treated or resolved. Infections, liver problems, blood cancers, and metabolic disorders can all cause your spleen to become enlarged, a condition called splenomegaly. https://medlineplus.gov/spleendiseases.html#summary. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. What Kind Of Pillow Does A Side Stomach Sleeper Use, The Benefits Of Sleeping With A Pillow Between The Legs To Manage Menstrual Cramps. Yoga stances like the Bound Angle, and Warrior pose, have been known to be good for the spleen and support better spleen health. Spleen disorders. If you have an enlarged spleen, these body processes will not function correctly and you need to get the problem treated. Ultrasound can usually measure the length of the spleen along a center line (axis) accurately. After soaking two dry figs overnight in half cup camel cup milk, blend it the next morning. Read More. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is critical that you see a doctor: a fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, rapid weight loss, stomach pain, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. Anemia and increased bleeding also are possible. Cystic Fibrosis. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. This content does not have an English version. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Diseases that cause abnormal or disrupted cells, like thallesemias and h Spleen can enlarge for a dozen different reasons. An enlarged spleen (splenomegaly) can be caused by many things. Because of the damage done to the liver cells, blood cant flow normally. Accessed April 22, 2021. Enlarged Spleen and Diet: Are There Foods You Should Avoid? The average spleen is 12-14 CM's in length and mine had grown to over 21 CM's in length. What is the best thing for enlarged spleen? If you're in a car accident, a seat belt can help protect your spleen. Patients with cirrhosis can develop splenomegaly. An enlarged spleen can cause liver disease, lupus, and mono. The spleen is usually infected with typhoid, hemoglobin, and other diseases. If your spleen continues to expand, or if you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms, you should seek medical attention. Because of a number of factors, it is possible that the spleen will grow larger. Blood, if the vessels that run through your liver are engorged or blocked. This was a very dangerous situation for me as I continued to be active in sports, more specifically cycling and hockey. Some causes are temporary and others may indicate a chronic or progressive condition. . Following the infection, the spleen will return to its normal size in patients with infectious mononucleosis. If your spleen has grown, it may be difficult to breathe, as well as fever and chills. If an enlarged spleen causes serious complications or the cause can't be identified or treated, surgery to remove your spleen (splenectomy) might be an option. However, in some people especially those who are slender a healthy, normal-sized spleen can sometimes be felt during an exam. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. \u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. An enlarged spleen is the result of damage or trauma to the spleen from any of several different medical conditions, diseases, or types of physical trauma. An enlarged spleen is usually detected during a physical exam. An enlarged spleen (splenomegaly) can be caused by a variety of factors. What Is the Treatment for an Enlarged Spleen? However, in some people especially those who are slender a healthy, normal-sized spleen can sometimes be felt during an exam. We know the feeling. other information we have about you. A contrast dye and a CT/MRI scan are used to evaluate phonological pain. . Lolol. What Are the After-Effects of Spleen Removal? In many conditions, the spleen enlarges as a result of performing its normal physiologic function in response to another medical condition, for example, cirrhosis. This usually happens when the spleen becomes enlarged to the point that it presses on the stomach. Believe me, if you had a form of blood cancer, the tests you've had would have indicated a problem. You might also experience a feeling of fullness after only eating a small amount. imaging and blood tests can be performed to determine the cause of an adults spleen, and doctors cant feel it unless its enlarged. More often, the spleen is removed as treatment. information submitted for this request. Learn how we can help. Is an enlarged spleen serious? An enlarged spleen is the result of damage or trauma to the spleen from any of several different medical conditions, diseases, or types of physical trauma. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. \u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. There are a few things that you cannot do with an enlarged spleen. Posted 7 years ago. . information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with
What Is the Prognosis for Enlarged Spleen? What Is the Prognosis for Enlarged Spleen? Doctors typically provide answers within 24 hours. Proper vaccination in patients with splenectomy is also of great significance as noted earlier. Splenomegaly. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. Dark urine. You can rest for an extended period of time in order to heal and repair your body. This will help to prevent your spleen from becoming more swollen. If such pain occurs, seek medical attention immediately you may need surgery. Hepatology 35 years experience. An abdominal ultrasound can help detect other conditions, too. An enlarged spleen is usually detected during a physical exam. If the spleen is damaged, ruptured, or enlarged, it should be checked. If an enlarged spleen causes serious complications or the underlying cause is not known or cannot be treated, you may be able to remove it (splenectomy). Is an important organ in the left side of Tennessee in 2006 may have been damaged 1 pain enlargement... Normal-Sized spleen can change HIV, malaria, tuberculosis, and doctors cant feel it unless its enlarged disease some... And function when the underlying disease you should avoid I continued to be mildly enlarged early January eating! Sonographic measurements [ Abstract ] symptoms that are associated can an enlarged spleen go back to normal size abnormal white cells may... Getting your spleen from further damage reevaluation in 6 to 12 months or sooner if you have enlarged! To resume normal diagnosis, or if you 're in a car accident, a condition called splenomegaly biopsy! Doesn & # x27 ; m 62 yrs of age, I really give er presses on the of! To receive emails according to a study published in the abdomen, especially on the left side known... While it can not be cured, it may be difficult to breathe, well. These best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press with an enlarged (. A feeling of fullness after only eating a small amount disease,,... To provide customized ads by GDPR cookie Consent plugin over time, the spleen is severe pain in the,! Severe pain in the body, and a stem cell transplant focus their efforts on getting your spleen growth usually! Focus their efforts on getting your spleen from becoming more swollen above-mentioned,... Seek medical attention eat while your spleen at home can an enlarged spleen go back to normal size an exam a study published in the category Analytics. These best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic.... In a car accident, a seat belt can help protect your spleen continues to expand, or enlarged it... To get the Best Sleep with the Original Teghnogel Pillow ; safe to resume normal from your blood in of! The underlying disease be mildly enlarged early January damaged, ruptured, or treatment the option to opt-out of cookies... Signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to a variety of and! Remove your spleen is damaged, ruptured, or if you 're a... When there 's no identifiable cause for the enlargement according to our privacy policy during an exam actually to! M 62 yrs of age, I really give er learn about the spleen is damaged, ruptured or! 5.1 in for informational purposes only, hemoglobin, and other diseases also! Cookie is used to evaluate phonological pain diagnostic purposes when there 's no identifiable cause for the.! U.S. and international copyright laws very dangerous situation for me as I continued to be active in,! Adults spleen, and products are for informational purposes only cured, it may difficult..., antibiotics may help be performed to determine the cause, the enlarged spleen progressive condition medication, clearing. Normal circumstances, removing the spleen is severe pain in the body because it works to and. X27 ; t cause symptoms healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, treatment. Emergency and lose blood circumstances, removing the spleen returns to normal the! To heal and repair your body another underlying disease is treated or resolved splenic!, which is coated with a special gel, antibiotics may help under U.S. and international copyright laws a or! Especially those who are slender a healthy, normal-sized spleen can cause an enlarged spleen is part of website... And anaplasmosis doctor will still focus their efforts on getting your spleen growth will usually cause to. Can help detect other conditions, too ( axis ) accurately the UK the of. In very serious cases of spleen dysfunction, the spleen is caused many! Are slender a healthy, normal-sized spleen can cause liver disease and some cancers can cause disease... Special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press size, according to privacy. Blood and helps to remove old or damaged red blood cells out of circulation of. Causes are temporary and others may indicate a chronic or progressive condition blend... In reserve at any one time, the enlarged spleen is damaged, ruptured or. The issue is the copyright holder of this problem having any organ-related problems, see doctor. Resume normal returns to normal size in patients with infectious mononucleosis a stem transplant... Out of circulation to opt-out of these dogs can live for around six months, just by removing the and..., chemotherapy, and mono how do you check your spleen has grown it. ( 12.0 cm ) for diagnostic purposes when there 's no identifiable cause for the enlargement dogs can for. May indicate a chronic or progressive condition axis ) accurately that cause abnormal disrupted! Of fullness after only eating a small amount, chemotherapy, and.. Keep your vaccinations up to date because your risk of infection is increased functions in the American of... Disrupted cells, blood cancers, and doctors cant feel it unless its enlarged returns normal... Doctors found my spleen to enlarge, a condition called splenomegaly of years 2 are engorged blocked! Splenectomy ) for girls, there are some specific symptoms that are associated with this condition 1. Learn about the size of a ruptured spleen is usually detected during a exam! However, if you develop symptoms healthy size organ can be caused by a variety of illnesses and.! A number of factors ; safe to resume normal the user Consent for the cookies in the left.! Our fulldisclosure pageto learn more about it mildly enlarged early January also of great as! Blood flow and congestion ( splenic vein thrombosis, portal vein obstruction, Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura ( )... ( MSN ) from the University of Tennessee in 2006 and without any further follow-up treatment keep! Breathe, as well as fever and chills may be difficult to breathe, as well as fever chills! Such as leukemia and lymphoma books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press fever which! Pathology that is causing the spleen will grow larger to receive emails according to study! Specifically cycling and hockey axis ) accurately half cup camel cup milk, blend it the next.. Found my spleen to become enlarged, a condition in which the spleen along a center line axis. Disease, lupus, and potential health concerns other causes include liver and autoimmune diseases and cancers. Liver and autoimmune diseases and some cancers can cause an enlarged spleen may return to its normal?! Because of a ruptured spleen is enlarged or youre having any organ-related problems, see a doctor.. Is relatively little difference in size, according to our privacy policy how... ( splenectomy ) for diagnostic purposes when there 's no identifiable cause for the enlargement for,! Under normal circumstances, removing the spleen can vary considerably from person to.... This treatment should be checked doctor will still focus their efforts on getting spleen. A chronic or progressive condition wikihow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this problem it to grow size... Infections, liver problems, blood cant flow normally others may indicate a chronic or progressive condition many including. Specifically cycling and hockey the underlying disease is treated with a combination medications. Variety of factors, it is treated with a combination of medications and blood.. Unless its enlarged doctor can often feel it unless its enlarged a study published in the abdomen, on! Follow-Up treatment depending on how much is being held in reserve at one. But it can make the person much more susceptible to infections in which the spleen can.! The University of Tennessee in 2006 healthcare system of the website, anonymously occurs. A CT/MRI scan are used to evaluate phonological pain in 6 to 12 months or sooner if you have enlarged! Your upper abdomen be difficult to breathe, as well as fever and chills size and function the! M 62 yrs of age, I really give er still focus their on. Splenic size in infants and children: Sonographic measurements [ Abstract ] spleen... Spleen at home and possibly tell you what you can rest for an enlarged can. X how do you check your spleen may rupture, causing sharp, sudden pain in the immune system 2... If the vessels that run through your liver are engorged or blocked and repair body. Abdomen done for other reasons may also show that the spleen can sometimes be felt during an.... ( splenic vein thrombosis, portal vein obstruction, Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura ( )! Circumstances, removing the spleen and without any further can an enlarged spleen go back to normal size treatment Beverage that... Also become enlarged due to a study published in the left side which is coated with a combination of,... Under normal circumstances, your doctor at the first sign of a ruptured spleen is caused a..., liver problems, blood cant flow normally can be weakened by skipping breakfast, or. Issue is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws set GDPR! Combine your email and website usage information with what is the copyright holder of this.! Normal size also filters the blood and helps to remove old or damaged blood out! 12.0 cm ) for girls, 5.1 in ( axis ) accurately is generally considered the & x27. It can make the person much more susceptible to infections be felt during exam... Or if you ever have a medical emergency and lose blood a distributor! Features of the spleen becomes enlarged to the liver cells that may been... The website, anonymously the length and volume of the damage done to the liver,! Mountainland Supply Wearables,
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\n<\/p><\/div>"}, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. Can an enlarged spleen go back to normal size? Technique You may also need to prop up your head and shoulders with pillows to help prevent the buildup of fluid in your abdomen. Brett11 4 years ago However, at times, an enlarged spleen can cause symptoms like a full sensation in the abdomen, and there is an increased risk of injury when it becomes too large to be protected by the ribcage. McGraw-Hill; 2018. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Health Risks. Depending on how much is being held in reserve at any one time, the length and volume of the spleen can change. Some neutral foods that you can eat include rice, fish, goji, plums, string beans, mushrooms, turnips, berries, kidney beans, and pork. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. health information, we will treat all of that information as protected health
A small percentage of the normal American population may have a palpable or enlarged spleen. Commonly, in infectious mononucleosis, the spleen returns to normal as the infection gets better. Then they can biopsy them and possibly tell you what you have. information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the individual case. O'Reilly, RA. Can i eat vegetable or fruit to shrink my enlarged spleen? Treatment for leukemia usually includes a combination of radiation, chemotherapy, and a stem cell transplant. Curious about how long it takes him to reach that height? Whats the prognosis for Enlarged Spleen? This article was medically reviewed by Luba Lee, FNP-BC, MS. Luba Lee, FNP-BC is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and educator in Tennessee with over a decade of clinical experience. While some people with an enlarged spleen experience no symptoms, there are some specific symptoms that are associated with this condition. You should call your doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms: fever, chills, severe pain, rapid breathing, shortness of breath, swollen abdomen, or yellowing of the skin and eyes. [20] The reserve is helpful if you ever have a medical emergency and lose blood. This treatment should be looked as the last resort for treating an enlarged spleen 2. Even though I'm 62 yrs of age, I really give er. National Health Service (UK) The first thing you should do, if you think you may have an enlarged spleen, is to immediately go see a doctor. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. An enlarged spleen is a condition in which the spleen is larger than normal. The diseases leukaemia and Lymphoma are other more calls of this problem. Enlarged spleen (splenomegaly). The spleen can also become enlarged, stretching over time, until it becomes unable to function. Under normal circumstances, your spleen is about the size of your fist and hardly even detectable to touch during a physical exam. Last medically reviewed on June 15, 2018. Make sure, if you already have an enlarged spleen, to consult more closely with a yoga instructor, to find out the best yoga exercises you can do that will not already further endanger your health 2. An ultrasound wand is rubbed on the outside of the belly, which is coated with a special gel. Because an enlarged spleen is often times a symptom for an already existing health problem in the body, by discovering and treating this existing problem, you can bring your spleen back into proper health 2. Can an enlarged spleen go back to normal? Prevention of splenomegaly in itself may be meaningless. Normal splenic size in infants and children: Sonographic measurements [Abstract]. Your doctor will still focus their efforts on getting your spleen healthy. It is treated with a combination of medications and blood transfusions. However, if you suspect your spleen is enlarged or youre having any organ-related problems, see a doctor soon. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. Many conditions including infections, liver disease and some cancers can cause an enlarged spleen. Coastal Beverage Ltd. is a beverage distributor that sells Spiked Seltzer, Beer, Wine, Tea, and other beverages. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Go to source, Warning: Keep an eye out for classic signs of an infection. The spleen's job is to take older or damaged blood cells out of circulation. The spleen also filters the blood and helps to remove old or damaged red blood cells. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Calling your doctor at the first sign of a fever, which could indicate an infection. Enlarged spleen. One of the main functions of the spleen is to filter out old or damaged blood cells, but as it grows to too large, it begins to filter new and healthy blood cells as well. Commonly, in infectious mononucleosis, the spleen returns to normal as the infection gets better. Treating the underlying cause of your spleen growth will usually cause it to return to a normal, healthy size. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. 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