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Spontaneous splenic rupture during the course of a rubella infection: report of a case
Abstract:
We report herein the case of a 26-year-old man who suffered a spontaneous splenic rupture during the course of a rubella infection. Initially, he presented with a high fever accompanied by a skin rash extending from the body trunk to the extremities and was admitted to hospital 3 days after onset for sudden upper abdominal pain radiating to both shoulders. On admission, he was pale and sweating with hypotension. An abdominal ultrasonographic study revealed a collection of fluid in the perisplenic space and exploratory laparotomy confirmed an intraabdominal hemorrhage from a ruptured spleen. The patient was treated by splenectomy and recovered uneventfully. The excised spleen was found to be moderately enlarged with a denuded capsule. Because the patient had no history of any external trauma and a positive serological test for rubella, we concluded that rubella contributed to the spontaneous splenic rupture in this case.
Insights
A young man experienced spontaneous splenic rupture due to rubella infection. This rare complication led to abdominal pain and required a splenectomy for recovery.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology & Hepatology
- Surgical Case Reports
Background:
- Spontaneous splenic rupture is a rare but life-threatening condition.
- Rubella virus (Rubella) infection typically presents with fever and rash.
- Splenic complications during viral infections are uncommon.
Observation:
- A 26-year-old male presented with fever, rash, and sudden severe abdominal pain radiating to the shoulders.
- Physical examination revealed pallor, sweating, and hypotension.
- Abdominal ultrasonography identified perisplenic fluid, and laparotomy confirmed splenic rupture and intraabdominal hemorrhage.
Findings:
- The patient had no history of trauma and tested positive for rubella antibodies.
- The spleen was enlarged with a denuded capsule.
- A splenectomy was performed, leading to an uneventful recovery.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare association between rubella infection and spontaneous splenic rupture.
- Clinicians should consider viral infections, including rubella, in the differential diagnosis of spontaneous splenic rupture.
- Further research may elucidate the specific mechanisms by which rubella virus can compromise splenic integrity.