Spontaneous splenic rupture complicating primary varicella zoster infection: a case report

Primary varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection is a common illness, predominantly affecting children. Its course is typically benign, although severe complications have been described. Splenic rupture is an extremely rare and potentially fatal complication of primary VZV infection, with only a handful of cases reported in the literature.

A 32-year-old Romanian man with no significant past medical history, presented with a 2 day history of sudden onset, worsening generalised abdominal pain and a 1 day history of vomiting. The following day he developed fevers and a generalised widespread erythematous rash consisting of clusters of macules, papules and vesicles at different stages of development. There was no history of sore throat, coryza, arthralgia, myalgia, cough, shortness of breath, weight loss, or night sweats. There was no recent illness and no history of trauma. CT abdomen showed splenic rupture with intra-abdominal haemorrhage. Admission bloods showed anaemia and thrombocytopenia, with haemoglobin 110 g/l and platelets 78 × 10⁹/l. Viral PCR of vesicle fluid from the rash was positive for VZV DNA confirming the clinical diagnosis of primary varicella zoster infection. Viral serology also confirmed recent infection. He was haemodynamically resuscitated, and underwent laparotomy and splenectomy. He was commenced on IV acyclovir and completed a 5 day course. Prior to discharge he was commenced on recommended splenectomy secondary prevention treatment.

There are several reported complications of varicella infection, more commonly in the immunocompromised population. Spontaneous splenic rupture is an unusual complication of primary VZV infection. Here we report the sixth known case in the literature. Splenic rupture should be considered in cases of primary varicella in young adults presenting with abdominal pain.