The Successful Resolution of a Large Splenic Abscess With Six Years of Follow-Up and Without Recurrence

Abstract

Splenic abscess is an uncommon medical condition that presents many diagnostic difficulties. Although rare, this clinical disease can be potentially life-threatening, with a fatality rate exceeding 70% in immunocompromised patients. Clinical manifestations of splenic abscess include fever, tenderness in the upper left region of the abdomen, and leukocytosis with left shift. Performing abdominal ultrasonography (USG) and CT in patients presenting with clinical manifestations enables a prompt and accurate diagnosis. The treatment for splenic abscess includes medical therapy, imaging-guided drainage, and splenectomy. We discuss the case of a 60-year-old female patient who presented to our emergency department with a large splenic abscess; she was managed with an ultrasound-guided drainage catheter, which led to the successful resolution of the condition. She did not experience any recurrence during six years of follow-up. This case report aims to highlight the role of interventional radiology in managing splenic abscesses.