Atraumatic Splenic Rupture Associated With Epstein-Barr Virus: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Infectious diseases
• Viral infections
• Surgical emergencies

Background:

• Infectious mononucleosis, caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), is usually self-limiting.
• Rarely, EBV infection can lead to severe complications like atraumatic splenic rupture (ASR).

Observation:

• A 16-year-old female presented with left upper quadrant pain and peritoneal signs.
• Initial labs showed anemia and leukocytosis.
• CT imaging revealed free intra-abdominal fluid and a perisplenic hematoma, suggesting splenic rupture.

Findings:

• The patient's condition was diagnosed as atraumatic splenic rupture in the context of acute EBV infection.
• Emergency splenectomy was performed due to hemodynamic instability.
• The patient experienced a good postoperative recovery.

Implications:

• ASR is an uncommon but life-threatening complication of mononucleosis.
• Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are critical for managing ASR in EBV-infected patients.
• Abdominal symptoms in EBV patients warrant thorough investigation for splenic complications.