Splenic artery aneurysm masquerading as upper gastrointestinal bleeding: A rare case report
Bishal Budha1, Narayan Prasad Neupane1, Bishweshwar Joshi1
1Maharajgunj Medical Campus, Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University, Maharajgunj, Nepal.
International Journal of Surgery Case Reports
|January 17, 2025
Summary
Diagnosing splenic artery aneurysm (SAA) is challenging due to vague symptoms. This case shows SAA causing celiac artery dissection and upper GI bleeding, requiring splenectomy after failed embolization.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Splenic artery aneurysm (SAA) is a rare but life-threatening condition.
- Diagnosis is often delayed due to non-specific clinical presentations, including upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Observation:
- A 58-year-old male presented with chronic melena and abdominal pain, initially misdiagnosed as erosive gastritis.
- Recurrent symptoms of light-headedness, severe epigastric pain, and syncope prompted further investigation.
Findings:
- Imaging revealed a splenic artery aneurysm with associated celiac artery dissection.
- Two attempts at endovascular embolization failed, necessitating a splenectomy.
Implications:
- This case underscores the diagnostic challenges of SAA, particularly when presenting with gastrointestinal bleeding and arterial dissection.
- While endovascular treatment is preferred, surgical intervention remains crucial in complex or refractory cases.
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