Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2025
Separation of Immune Cell Subpopulations in Peripheral Blood Samples from Children with Infectious Mononucleosis
Published on: September 7, 2022
Splenic Rupture in Infectious Mononucleosis: A Case Report
Ahmer A Longi1, Zubair Edakkavil1, Misbah Fazlani1
1Department of Internal Medicine, Mediclinic Welcare Hospital, Dubai, ARE.
Abstract:
Splenic ruptures are rarely seen in infectious mononucleosis (IM), caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is a self-limiting viral infection characterized by fever, pharyngitis, and lymphadenopathy. While most cases are mild and resolve without complications, rare and severe complications can arise, including splenic rupture, which is a potentially life-threatening event. Previous case reports have linked splenic rupture to IM with increased splenic size. We present an atypical case report of splenic rupture in a young adult diagnosed with IM, whose spleen was found to be of normal size. This study emphasizes the need for physicians to be more vigilant and closely observe for splenic ruptures in IM patients, despite having normal splenic sizes. This would contribute to reducing both the mortality and morbidity associated with atraumatic splenic ruptures.
Insights
Splenic rupture is a rare but serious complication of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, also known as infectious mononucleosis (IM). This case highlights that splenic rupture can occur even with a normal-sized spleen, urging increased physician vigilance.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Infectious mononucleosis (IM), caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), is typically a self-limiting illness.
- Severe complications, though rare, can include splenic rupture, a life-threatening event.
- Previous reports often associated splenic rupture in IM with splenomegaly (enlarged spleen).
Observation:
- This report details an atypical case of splenic rupture in a young adult diagnosed with IM.
- The patient's spleen was noted to be of normal size, contrary to previous observations.
- This presentation challenges the assumption that splenic enlargement is a prerequisite for rupture in IM.
Findings:
- Splenic rupture can occur in infectious mononucleosis irrespective of splenic size.
- This case underscores the variability in IM complications.
- Atraumatic splenic rupture is a critical consideration in IM patients.
Implications:
- Physicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for splenic rupture in all IM patients, regardless of spleen size.
- Prompt recognition and management are crucial to reduce mortality and morbidity associated with IM-related splenic rupture.
- This case contributes to a better understanding of rare EBV complications and emphasizes the need for vigilant clinical monitoring.
