Spleen rupture

Spleen Rupture

A Spleen Rupture is a severe medical condition that occurs when the spleen, a vital organ located in the upper left part of the abdomen, is damaged or torn. This can lead to internal bleeding and is considered a medical emergency.

File:Spleen diagram-en.svg

Diagram of the human spleen

Causes

Spleen ruptures can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma to the abdomen, such as from a car accident, fall, or physical assault. Certain medical conditions and treatments, such as mononucleosis, cancer, or radiation therapy, can also weaken the spleen and make it more susceptible to rupture.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a spleen rupture can include pain in the upper left abdomen, tenderness when the left side of the abdomen is touched, confusion, dizziness, fainting, and blurred vision. In severe cases, a person may go into shock due to loss of blood.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a spleen rupture typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests, such as a CT scan or ultrasound. In some cases, a laparotomy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the damage.

Treatment

Treatment for a spleen rupture depends on the severity of the injury. In some cases, non-surgical treatment may be possible if the rupture is small and the patient is stable. This typically involves close monitoring in the hospital and possibly a blood transfusion. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to repair or remove the spleen.

See also

• Spleen
• Abdominal trauma
• Hemorrhagic shock