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Splenic abscess due to Streptococcus anginosus. Case report.
A Lombardi1, M Coppola, A Pennica
1Università of Rome La Sapienza, 2nd School of Medicine and Surgery, S. Andrea Hospital, Department of Surgery, Rome.
Il Giornale Di Chirurgia
|October 7, 2008
Summary
Splenic abscess is a rare infection, often linked to endocarditis or compromised immunity. This case highlights a rare presentation with diarrhea, successfully treated with splenectomy and antibiotics.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Splenic abscess is a rare condition, typically arising from distant infections like endocarditis or in immunocompromised individuals.
- Common symptoms include fever, leukocytosis, and left upper quadrant pain, though presentations can be non-specific.
Observation:
- This case report details a rare splenic abscess presentation with diarrhea, originating from a perforated duodenal ulcer.
- The abscess contained gas and led to peritonitis due to Streptococcus anginosus dissemination.
Findings:
- Computed tomography (CT) and ultrasound are crucial for diagnosing splenic abscesses, with CT providing detailed anatomical information.
- The patient's splenic abscess was diagnosed using CT, ultrasound, and contrast-enhanced abdominal X-ray.
Implications:
- Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention, including splenectomy and antibiotic therapy, are critical for managing splenic abscesses.
- This case underscores the importance of considering unusual presentations and diverse etiologies, such as duodenal ulcers, in splenic abscess diagnosis and treatment.
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