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Pathological rupture of malarial spleen.
A J Mokashi1, R G Shirahatti, S K Prabhu
1Dept of Gastroenterological Surgical Services, TN Medical College, Bombay, Maharashtra.
Journal of Postgraduate Medicine
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Spontaneous splenic rupture can occur during malaria treatment, even with chloroquine. This rare complication requires surgical intervention (splenectomy) for recovery.
Area of Science:
- Tropical Medicine
- Pathology
Background:
- Spontaneous splenic rupture is a rare but serious complication of malaria.
- Malaria infection can lead to spleen enlargement and increased risk of rupture.
Observation:
- Two cases of spontaneous splenic rupture in malaria patients are presented.
- One patient experienced pain and palpitations while on chloroquine therapy for acute malaria.
- The second patient presented with abdominal pain and fever.
Findings:
- Exploratory laparotomy revealed enlarged spleens with tears in both patients.
- Splenectomy was performed, and histopathology confirmed malarial parasites within red blood cells.
- Histological findings included dilated, congested sinusoids and follicular atrophy.
Implications:
- This case series highlights the importance of considering splenic rupture in malaria patients presenting with abdominal pain.
- Prompt diagnosis and surgical management (splenectomy) can lead to favorable outcomes.
- Further research into risk factors and preventative strategies for malarial splenic rupture is warranted.