Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Causing Atraumatic Splenic Rupture Without Splenic Metastasis: A Case Report

Abstract

BackgroundWhile atraumatic splenic rupture is rare phenomenon, its potential lethality emphasizes its clinical importance. Disseminated neoplastic disease is a known mechanism of atraumatic splenic rupture. Case PresentationThis case report discusses a patient presenting with tension hydrothorax and atraumatic splenic rupture in the setting of non-small cell lung carcinoma requiring emergent chest tube insertion and splenectomy. This patient’s presentation represents only the second documented case of atraumatic splenic rupture secondary to metastatic lung carcinoma without pathological evidence of splenic metastasis. ConclusionsThis unique case emphasizes the importance of assessing structural integrity of the spleen in patients with metastatic non-small cell lung carcinoma, as neoplastic atraumatic splenic rupture conveys a significant mortality risk.