[Spontaneous splenic rupture as a complication of symptom-free infections mononucleosis]

Márta Szokó1, András Matolcsy, Gábor Kovács

  • 1Fejér Megyei Szent György Kórház Csecsemo- és Gyermekosztály Székesfehérvár Seregélyesi út 3 8000. mszoko@mail.fmkorhaz.hu

Orvosi Hetilap
|July 17, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Splenic rupture is a rare but fatal complication of Epstein-Barr virus infection. This case highlights a spontaneous spleen rupture in a teen with acute Epstein-Barr virus infection but no infectious mononucleosis symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Hepatology and Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Case Reports

Background:

  • Splenic rupture is a rare complication (0.1%-0.5%) of infectious mononucleosis, yet it is the most common fatal outcome.
  • Spontaneous splenic rupture associated with Epstein-Barr virus infection, without typical mononucleosis symptoms, is exceptionally uncommon and poses a significant risk.

Observation:

  • A 16-year-old male presented with spontaneous splenic rupture requiring splenectomy.
  • Serological testing confirmed an acute Epstein-Barr virus infection.
  • The patient exhibited no overt signs or symptoms of infectious mononucleosis.

Findings:

  • The case demonstrates a rare instance of Epstein-Barr virus-related splenic rupture occurring in the absence of classic infectious mononucleosis symptoms.
  • Diagnosis was confirmed through serological evidence of acute Epstein-Barr virus infection.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering Epstein-Barr virus infection in unexplained splenic ruptures, even without typical symptoms.
  • Early diagnosis and management are crucial for favorable outcomes in such rare presentations.
  • Highlights the need for awareness among clinicians regarding this unusual complication of Epstein-Barr virus infection.

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