Spontaneous Splenic Rupture Mimicking Pneumonia: A Case Report
Author Information
Author(s): Karen A MacKenzie, Roy L Soiza
Primary Institution: Department of Medicine for the Elderly, Woodend Hospital, Aberdeen, UK
Conclusion
Spontaneous splenic rupture is uncommon but should be considered in patients presenting with non-specific abdominal pain.
Supporting Evidence
- Spontaneous splenic rupture is often under-diagnosed.
- The patient presented with symptoms that could easily be mistaken for pneumonia.
- Management strategies for spontaneous splenic rupture in older patients are not well established.
Takeaway
Sometimes, a person's spleen can burst without any injury, and it can look like they have pneumonia instead. This can be very serious.
Methodology
Case report detailing the clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging, and management of a patient with spontaneous splenic rupture.
Limitations
The case highlights the lack of clear guidelines for managing spontaneous splenic rupture in older patients.
Participant Demographics
74-year-old Caucasian male with a history of mild ischaemic heart disease and depression.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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