When the Spleen Breaks: A Rare Case of Spontaneous Splenic Rupture and the Diagnostic Significance of CT Scan

Abstract

Purpose: This case report aims to discuss the rare occurrence of spontaneous splenic rupture and the utility of CT scans in its diagnosis and management. Presentation of Case: A 58-year-old chronic smoker presented to the emergency department with sudden-onset abdominal pain. He was diagnosed with splenic rupture based on clinical presentation and imaging findings, including an enlarged spleen and abdominal fluid on CT scan. The patient underwent splenectomy, with histological examination confirming the diagnosis. Discussion: CT scan is a commonly used imaging technique in the diagnosis of splenic masses, providing a high resolution, cross-sectional view of the spleen and surrounding structures. The use of contrast agents enhances the differentiation between vascular and non-vascular lesions and improves the accuracy of diagnosis. Other imaging techniques such as ultrasound, MRI, and PET-CT may also be used. The treatment of splenic masses depends on the underlying etiology and the clinical status of the patient. Conclusion: The CT scan findings in this case suggest a splenic mass, which was confirmed to be a decapsulated spleen on histological examination after splenectomy. The use of imaging techniques such as CT scan is important in the diagnosis and management of splenic masses, aiding in preoperative planning and postoperative monitoring. Postoperative management of splenic rupture typically involves pain control, antibiotic therapy, and lifelong prophylactic antibiotics and vaccinations to reduce the risk of infection. This case report discusses a rare case of spontaneous splenic rupture and highlights the diagnostic and management utility of CT scans. The patient, a 58-year-old chronic smoker.