Isolated splenic peliosis in an immunocompromised patient

Area of Science:

• Medical imaging and pathology
• Infectious diseases
• Organ-specific pathology

Background:

• Peliosis is a rare vascular condition causing blood-filled cavities in organs, predominantly the liver.
• Isolated splenic peliosis is exceptionally uncommon.
• Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients may present with peliosis linked to Bartonella henselae infections.

Observation:

• A 45-year-old HIV-positive male on antiretroviral therapy reported a left hypochondrial abdominal mass.
• Radiological imaging revealed an abdominal mass.
• Histopathological analysis confirmed the mass as splenic peliosis.

Findings:

• The case confirms splenic peliosis in an HIV-positive individual.
• Radiological and histopathological examinations were crucial for diagnosis.
• Antiretroviral therapy was noted in the patient's history.

Implications:

• This case underscores the need to consider splenic peliosis in HIV-positive patients with abdominal masses.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate management are vital for patients with peliosis.
• Further research into the association between HIV, Bartonella, and peliosis is warranted.