Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 16, 2026

Application of Laparoscopic Partial Splenectomy with Total Blood Flow Occlusion in Benign Splenic Lesions
Published on: December 20, 2024
Unusual presentation of spontaneous splenic haematoma due to severe pancreatitis: a cautionary tale
Karthik Purushothaman1, David W Borowski
1Department of General Surgery, University Hospital North Tees, Stockton on Tees, UK.
Abstract:
We report the case of a patient with multiple splenic complications from chronic pancreatitis with pseudocyst formation, including splenic vein thrombosis, subcapsular splenic haematoma and splenic artery pseudoaneurysm. The initial presentation was associated with pleuritic chest pain, clinically resembling symptoms of pulmonary embolism. The patient was treated with therapeutic low-molecular-weight heparin, without confirmatory imaging. However, the latter arranged computed tomographic pulmonary angiogram was negative, while the abdominal sequences of the CT revealed the splenic haematoma as causative pathology. The patient was initially treated conservatively, and discharged from inpatient care. On a subsequent CT, a pseudoaneurysm of the splenic artery was found and treated with coil embolisation. The patient is currently awaiting definitive management of the pancreatic pseudocyst.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Pancreatitis II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Acute pancreatitis is characterized by rapid inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by factors like gallstone blockage or excessive alcohol consumption. Chronic pancreatitis, on the other hand, is a slow, progressive inflammation that may result from long-term alcohol abuse, obstructions in the pancreatic duct, or genetic factors.
The causes of acute pancreatitis include:
Acute Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which occurs when the immune system becomes active and causes swelling, pain, and disruptions in organ function. Pancreatitis can manifest as either an acute or chronic condition.
Acute pancreatitis arises suddenly and lasts for a brief duration, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-term affliction...