[Unclear Abdominal Pain - Not Always a Gastroenterological Emergency]

History and admission findings An 84-year old patient with persistent atrial fibrillation and chronic renal failure received a subcutaneous injection with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) during a hospital stay. Over the course of her hospitalization, the patient developed abdominal pain. There was a marked hematoma at the injection site. A large tumor was palpable in the right abdominal quadrant. Examinations Due to the significant reduction in hemoglobin, we performed a CT-angiogram of the abdomen. Diagnosis We were able to visualize an intramuscular hematoma within the rectus abdominis muscle. Therapy and clinical course After visualization with digital subtraction angiography and application of microcoils and histoacryl-glue, we were able to stop bleeding. After implantation of left atrial appendage occluder, oral anticoagulation therapy could be stopped. Conclusion LMWH-treated patients with nonspecific abdominal pain should be meticulously examined to exclude iatrogenic abdominal muscle hematoma.