Volvulus of a wandering spleen in a pediatric patient

Dolores Ferrara1, Gianfranco Vallone2, Silvana Russo3

  • 1Department of Radiology, "A.O.R.N. Santobono-Pausilipon" Children Hospital, Naples, Italy.

PubMed

Insights

Wandering spleen, a rare pediatric condition, can lead to splenic torsion. Early ultrasound diagnosis is crucial for prompt surgical intervention to prevent severe complications.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

  • Wandering spleen is a rare pediatric condition resulting from weakened splenic ligaments.
  • It can present with variable symptoms, with splenic torsion occurring in 64% of cases.

Observation:

  • A 13-year-old boy presented with hypogastric pain, vomiting, and a suprapubic mass.
  • Ultrasound revealed an ovoid structure with altered echotexture and reduced vascularization, suggesting splenic torsion.

Findings:

  • Ultrasound is vital for diagnosing wandering spleen and associated complications like torsion.
  • The case highlights the diagnostic utility of ultrasound in identifying splenic torsion.

Implications:

  • Prompt surgical intervention is essential for managing wandering spleen with torsion to avoid life-threatening outcomes.
  • Early diagnosis and surgical management can prevent splenic infarction and other severe complications.

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