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Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Application of Laparoscopic Partial Splenectomy with Total Blood Flow Occlusion in Benign Splenic Lesions
Published on: December 20, 2024
[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
Abstract:
Splenic rupture is a rare complication of infectious mononucleosis. Although it occurs only in 0.1%-0.5% of cases, splenic rupture remains the most common fatal complication of the disease. Mononucleosis related spontaneous rupture of the spleen without any other characteristic symptoms of the disease is extremely unusual, and threatens with fatal outcome due to its rare and unexpected occurrence. The authors report the case of a 16-year-old boy who needed splenectomy following a spontaneous rupture of the spleen. Serological tests proved an acute Epstein-Barr virus infection in the background but without any signs or symptoms of infectious mononucleosis. The diagnosis and treatment of this infection related to spleen ruptures are also discussed.
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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