Spleen rupture

Spleen Rupture
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Abdominal pain, left shoulder pain, hypotension
Complications	Hemorrhagic shock, peritonitis
Onset	Sudden
Duration	Variable
Types	N/A
Causes	Trauma, splenomegaly, infectious mononucleosis
Risks	Contact sports, motor vehicle accidents
Diagnosis	Physical examination, ultrasound, CT scan
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Surgery, embolization, observation
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Depends on severity
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

A spleen rupture is a medical emergency that occurs when the spleen, an organ located in the upper left part of the abdomen, is damaged and begins to bleed. This condition can lead to significant internal bleeding and requires immediate medical attention.

Causes

Spleen rupture can be caused by:

• Blunt abdominal trauma: This is the most common cause and can occur during motor vehicle accidents, falls, or contact sports.
• Splenomegaly: An enlarged spleen, often due to conditions like infectious mononucleosis, can be more susceptible to rupture.
• Infections: Certain infections can weaken the spleen, making it more prone to rupture.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a ruptured spleen may include:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Pain in the left shoulder, known as Kehr's sign
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
• Dizziness or fainting

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a spleen rupture typically involves:

• Physical examination: Checking for tenderness in the abdomen and signs of internal bleeding.
• Ultrasound: A non-invasive imaging technique to assess internal organs.
• CT scan: Provides detailed images of the spleen and surrounding structures.

Treatment

Treatment options depend on the severity of the rupture and may include:

• Surgery: In severe cases, a splenectomy (removal of the spleen) may be necessary.
• Embolization: A minimally invasive procedure to stop bleeding by blocking blood vessels.
• Observation: In minor cases, careful monitoring and supportive care may be sufficient.

Prognosis

The prognosis for a ruptured spleen varies depending on the extent of the injury and the timeliness of treatment. Prompt medical intervention can significantly improve outcomes.

Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Wearing seat belts while driving
• Using protective gear during contact sports
• Avoiding activities that increase the risk of abdominal trauma

See also

• Splenectomy
• Abdominal trauma
• Hemorrhagic shock

External links

• Mayo Clinic - Ruptured Spleen
• WebMD - Ruptured Spleen