[Spontaneous retroperitoneal hemorrhage]

Spontaneous retroperitoneal haemorrhage is most frequently due to rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Pathology in other retroperitoneal organs, most often the kidney and the adrenal gland, may cause retroperitoneal haemorrhage. Spontaneous rupture of veins, especially the iliac vein, and haemorrhage secondary to anticoagulant therapy, are less common causes. The symptoms are variable and non-specific, but most often include acute abdominal pain, hypotension, peritoneal irritation and a palpable abdominal mass. The diagnosis is confirmed by ultrasonography, computerized tomography, and if relevant angiography or scintigraphy. We discuss three patients with spontaneous retroperitoneal haemorrhage, examine the clinical approach and the role of the various diagnostic aids, and consider how the various conditions should be dealt with.