A Real Gut Punch: An Unexpected Diagnosis of Spontaneous Splenic Rupture

Atraumatic or spontaneous splenic rupture is a rare but life-threatening complication of infectious mononucleosis. We present a case of a 26-year-old man presenting with a 1-week history of sharp epigastric and right upper quadrant pain, associated with malaise and subjective fever. Although initial findings were concerning for acute cholangitis, abdominal computed tomography angiography scan revealed splenic rupture. Further exploration confirmed acute Epstein-Barr virus infection. Infectious mononucleosis must be considered in young patients with lymphocytosis, splenomegaly, and prolonged malaise. Awareness of this presentation will allow for timely diagnosis and treatment, thereby preventing potentially fatal complications of infectious mononucleosis such as splenic rupture.