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Subcapsular splenic hematoma complicating chronic relapsing pancreatitis. Case report
A Agnifili1, F Gianfelice, P Gola
1Department of Surgery, University of L'Aquila, Italy.
The European Journal of Surgery = Acta Chirurgica
|January 1, 1991
Summary
This case study details a subcapsular splenic hematoma linked to chronic relapsing pancreatitis. Researchers propose a mechanism involving enzyme diffusion, leading to fluid collection, and describe surgical treatment.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Chronic relapsing pancreatitis (CRP) is a complex inflammatory condition.
- Splenic complications, though rare, can arise from severe pancreatitis.
Observation:
- A unique case of subcapsular splenic hematoma developed in a patient with CRP.
- The hematoma presented as a subacute fluid collection.
- A pathogenetic mechanism involving proteolytic enzyme diffusion was hypothesized.
Findings:
- Proteolytic enzymes from the pancreas diffused between the splenic capsule and parenchyma.
- This diffusion led to the formation of a subcapsular splenic hematoma.
- The condition required surgical intervention.
Implications:
- This case expands the understanding of splenic complications associated with pancreatitis.
- It highlights a potential pathway for pancreatic enzyme-induced splenic injury.
- Effective management involved surgical excision of the cystic structure, splenectomy, and distal pancreatectomy.